Tammy Webber, Associated Press

Chicago (AP) - Comedy actor, director and writer Harold Ramis, best known for his roles in movies such as "Ghostbusters" and "Stripes," died Monday at his suburban Chicago home after a four-year battle with an autoimmune disease, his talent agency said.

Ramis, 69, died early Monday morning of complications from vasculitis, which causes inflammation and damage to blood vessels, said Chris Day, a spokesman at United Talent Agency. Ramis was surrounded by family and friends.

Ramis was a key factor in some of the biggest blockbuster comedies in the 1970s and 1980s.

He co-wrote "Animal House," which starred fellow Second City alum John Belushi. He teamed up with Second City alums Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd on "Ghostbusters," in which Ramis co-starred and helped write.

He also co-wrote and directed "Groundhog Day" and "Caddyshack," and co-wrote "Meatballs" - all of which starred Murray.

"The best comedy touches...