Walt Ehmer, the president and CEO of Waffle House and a board member of the Atlanta Police Foundation, has passed away at the age of 58, the foundation confirmed on Sunday.
Ehmer began his career at Waffle House in 1992 and quickly advanced through the company’s ranks, becoming president in 2002. He later assumed the roles of CEO and chairman, as noted by his alma mater, Georgia Tech.
“His leadership, dedication, and kindness left a lasting impact on many, both within Waffle House and in the wider community. His legacy is profound,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens in a statement.
On Sunday afternoon, Waffle House’s board of directors shared that Ehmer passed away after a prolonged illness, stating, “His absence will be deeply felt by the entire Waffle House family.”
Ehmer held leadership roles beyond Waffle House, including serving as chair of the Georgia Tech Alumni Association Board of Trustees from 2012 to 2013. He was also involved with the Georgia Tech Foundation Board and the Georgia Tech Advisory Board.
Waffle House, founded in 1955, now operates over 1,900 locations across 25 states.
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Ehmer is survived by his three children, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
