Last laugh nears for Uncle Fun as store announces closing

Ted Frankel clowns around with Uncle Fun merchandise in a 2001 photo. | Sun-Times library

Mirthmakers have just a few more weeks to get whoopie cushions, chattering teeth and pop-culture effluvia from the store that made them an art form.

Uncle Fun, which has been merchandising merriment for more than two decades at 1338 W. Belmont, is getting ready to close its doors.

“We will be bringing in new stuff everyday from warehouse and basement, including our regular jokes and merchandise, antique toys and collectibles, and items from private collection,” a post on the store’s Facebook page said Saturday, adding that everything is at least 50 percent off.

Owner Ted Frankel plans to retire to Baltimore with his husband and his dog. He told the Sun-Times the store’s last day will be Jan. 26.