Al Sharis was born on February 19, 1940 in Tehran, Iran to Ismail and Mansoureh Sharif. He was a beloved father, grandfather, wrestling coach, and restaurant owner.
Al came to the United States at age 12, and grew up in Chariton, Iowa. He graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, and wrestled for the National Champion Cyclones. He was a devoted member of Sigma Chi fraternity. After a short stint with Stouffer Food Corporation in New York City, he moved to Atlanta and opened his first Nibbles. He successfully operated Nibbles for over 50 years, with locations in Decatur, Lithonia, Conyers, Marietta, and most recently, Acworth, GA.
Al was devoted to his family and to Nibbles. He felt honored and privileged to be a community coach at The Westminster Schools for ten seasons, often bragging about his wrestlers as though they were his own sons. His talents included “thrifting” and crafting deception regarding his age.
Al demonstrated a tireless work ethic, determined perseverance, and kind generosity. He made everyone feel welcomed, and never turned away a hungry soul. “Pay me later” were frequent words from his mouth when customers were short of funds. He was a proud supporter of law enforcement and active duty military, whom he served free of charge.
He is survived by his loving wife and business partner, Anita May Sharis, a sister, Farah Sharif in Boston, MA, and a brother, Bijan Sharif (Pauline) in Cobham, Surrey, England; much loved daughters Zari Callahan (Don), Alexis DiPiero, Marci Kochman (Chris), Wanda Sharis, Farah Sharis, and Sandra Sharis; adored grandchildren, CC, Gray and Sands Webber, and Caroline and Alex Kochman; and much admired nieces, Fahti Self, Nini Donovan, and Louise Black.
A celebration of Al’s life will be held at Nibbles Grill on Saturday, April 30th from noon to 3 pm. Come hungry!
