Constantine "Gus" Koutroulakis, longtime owner of the legendary Pete's Famous Hot Dogs in downtown Birmingham, died this morning at his Homewood home.

Koutroulakis was pronounced dead at 8:50 a.m.

He called family members and his housekeeper this morning and said he wasn't feeling well. His housekeeper arrived at the home to find him dead in his chair.

The 81-year-old sold hot dogs from his small downtown Birmingham shop since 1948. Just out of Phillips High School, he went to work for his uncle Pete Koutroulakis, who, upon retiring, sold Pete's Famous to his nephew.

The restaurant has changed little in its more than 72 years in business, nor did it's popular owner.

"He was an institution here on Second Avenue," said his brother-in-law Chris Christ.

Relatives said the shop will be closed today while they try to cope with the unexpected loss.

"We're shocked," Christ said.