Theo Katechis, part owner of Chris’ Hotdogs, has died

Theo Katechis/Source: Chris’ Hot Dogs

One of the owners of an iconic hot dog and hamburger restaurant in downtown Montgomery has died.

An employee with Chris’ Hotdogs confirmed to Action 8 News that Theo Katechis passed away Wednesday morning.

Chris’ Hotdogs opened on May 1, 1917 by Theo’s father, Christopher Anastasios “Mr. Chris” Katechis.

Theo co-owned the restaurant with his son, Gus Katechis, at the time of his passing.

Gus released this statement to Action 8 News:

“He loved his customers and he loved his church, the Greek Orthodox Church, said Gus. “Nothing made him smile more than to see happy customers. Everyone was his friend – old and young, black and white, rich or poor. The only thing he loved more than his customers was his family. He had 5 boys. They all worked in the restaurant at one time.”

No word on a cause of death at this time.

Theo Katechis was 78 years old.