A Chicago Storeowner Gave Pee-Wee Herman His Name

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Lakeview icon Uncle Fun closed up shop on Sunday. As he fielded fond farewells from customers—and doled out free merchandise—owner Ted Frankel reminisced about his 40 years manning the quirky shop.

Among Frankel's most memorable incidents: a visit from a young Pee-Wee Herman, The Red Eye reports. Frankel had one-inch, Japanese toys known as Pee-Wee Harmonicas in the shop. He showed the tiny music-makers to Herman, and "that's how he chose his name," Frankel said. "Of course, be bought a bunch to give out to all his friends."
· Uncle Fun is Closing; Everything Is 50% Off [Racked Chicago]
· Uncle Fun says goodbye [Red Eye]