Anthony "Russell" Yann Jr.

Well known owner and proprietor of Yann's Hotdog Stand Passes Away

Anthony Russell Yann Jr. passed away in his sleep after a short illness at Acuity Specialty Hospital on January 15, 2021.

He was born January 24, 1931 in Fairmont, West Virginia the son of Antony Yann and Catherine DeMarco Yann.

He began his career at the landmark Yann's Hot Dog Stand on the High Level Bridge in Fairmont when he was 5 years old helping his father with various duties and he continued working until March of 2020.

He is survived by his children, Catherine R. Galambus (Terry) of Fairmont, Deborah A. Pettit (Mark) of Florida, Toni L. Davis and her companion Rick Weiss of Maryland, Anthony "Russell" Yann III of Fairmont,  brother Frank G. Yann (Dixie) of Fairmont, and his brother-in-law, Frank Sabatino of Grant Town. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Cresta Stedman, Christopher Galambus, Talia Weiss and Morgan Dailey; his great grandchildren, Casey Stedman, with whom he had a very special bond, Anthony Gentry, Cozette Martin, Jace Ince-Dailey, Demi Dailey and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Rose Marie Sabatino Yann, sister Anna Hale, and his parents, Antony Yann and Catherine DeMarco Yann.

He was known lovingly to many as the "Hotdog Nazi" because of his "no ketchup "rule. He loved his customers and looked forward to every day at work.  Over the years he supported many athletic teams and made sure they were fed no matter where they played or traveled.  There was special place in his heart for Nick Saban and his teams.

He shared his dry wit, generosity and work ethic with the people of Fairmont and others far and wide. Yann's hot dog fame spread throughout not only West Virginia but around the world and the dogs actually traveled by car, van, RV, bus, mail and plane to get to hungry fans everywhere.

In his younger years, he was an excellent bowler and traveled and participated in many tournaments.  He had an obsession with cars, owned many over the years and was an expert at getting the best deal.  He took many legendary trips to Disney World with his family and friends that he really enjoyed.

Thanks to all his loyal customers who supported him over the years.  A special thank you to all the young men who worked in the store with him and went on to make him proud.  He particularly had a close bond with two very special young men, Doug Wadsworth and Doug Yost, who always were there for him no matter what and he loved them dearly.  Thank you to the doctors and staff at Mon Health and Acuity Specialty Hospitals for their compassionate care.

He was a legend in his own right.  Truly one of a kind.

Per Russell's wishes, a private family service will be held with no visitation.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Spirit Catholic Church, The American Cancer Society or St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.domicofh.com.