Francis “Fran” Deck, the son of Fran’s Restaurant founder G. Francis “Fran” Deck who built upon his father’s legacy, has passed away.

The iconic restaurant was founded in 1940. The 10-seat diner opened at Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue and grew into one of the most recognizable restaurants in Toronto. The family later opened more locations at Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue, and on College Street.

The younger Deck served as the owner, operator and steward of Fran’s for decades and dedicated his life “to preserving the values of hospitality, community, and accessibility that made Fran’s a household name across generations,” according to a news release sent out by his family Monday evening.

Under his leadership, the family said Deck worked to keep the character and traditions that made Fran’s special.

“He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former colleagues, loyal customers, and the many people whose lives he touched throughout the city,” the statement said.

The Joon and Mi Sook Kim acquired Fran’s Restaurant company in 1998. They opened the location at Victoria and Shuter streets in 2004, and the location near Yonge and Front streets in 2010.

In a statement, Robert Kim, one of Joon and Mi Sook’s sons, said they are saddened by Deck’s passing.

“When my family took the reins from the Deck family in 1998, we quickly realized just how special Fran’s was to so many people,” read the statement.

Robert added he had the privilege of speaking with Fran Jr. and hearing his reflections on the restaurant’s history.

“His pride in Fran’s, its people, and its place in Toronto was unmistakable. Through his stories, it was easy to see why Fran’s has remained such a beloved gathering place for more than 85 years,” read Robert’s statement.

“We are proud to continue the legacy that Fran Jr. and the Deck family built, and our thoughts are with the Deck family during this difficult time.”

Only two locations remain in Toronto: Yonge and College streets, and Victoria and Shuter streets.

Funeral and memorial details are expected to be announced by the family at a later date.