Owner of The Roanoke Weiner Stand dies at 82

ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - Gus Pappas, the owner of The Roanoke Weiner Stand, died from a heart attack on Friday August 26.

Pappas, who was born in Greece, was 82 years old.

Friends and colleagues describe him as a hardworking, good-hearted man.

In 1955, Gus arrived at Ellis Island where his full name, Konstantinos Georgios Papakostantinou, was Americanized and shortened to Pappas and he immediately began working for his uncle Arthur and aunt Elsie Chacknes at The Roanoke Weiner Stand, according to his obituary.

In 1984, he opened a second store on Lee Highway.

Co-workers said they're struggling to get through the day, but are staying open to serve up his legacy.

"It's hard when you see a family friend pass away whose been here for many years," said customer Dime Reaves.

"It's just been tough," said Roanoke Weiner stand Manager Tonia George, tears streaming down her cheeks. "I've been working with him for a long time. He's like family. You know, he's a good man. He was always there for you when you needed anything. I miss him."

Visitation for Pappas is scheduled from 6p.m. to 8p.m. Thursday at Oakey's Roanoke Chapel on Church Avenue.

Services will be held on Friday at 2p.m. at Oakley's. Interment will follow in Evergreen Burial Park.