Walt Ehmer, chairman and CEO of Waffle House, has died at the age of 58. Ehmer spent more than 32 years with the chain, starting as a senior buyer in 1992. He worked his way up to vice president of purchasing, vice president of finance and chief financial officer. In 2006, he was named president and chief operating officer.
According to his LinkedIn page, Ehmer was named president and CEO in March 2012. In October 2022, he also assumed the role of chairman.
According to the Associated Press, Ehmer died after a long illness. The Waffle House board said: “He will be greatly missed by his entire Waffle House family.”
In a statement released Sunday, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said, “I am saddened to learn of the passing of Walt Ehmer, CEO of Waffle House and proud graduate of Georgia Tech. His leadership, dedication and warmth touched the lives of many, both within the Waffle House family and beyond. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy. My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. May they find comfort in his continued influence and the lasting impression he left on so many.”
Ehmer graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1989 and served as president of the Georgia Tech Alumni Association from 2012 to 2013. Georgia Tech wrote that Ehmer “remained a close friend of the Institute throughout his career.”
Ehmer also served on the board of trustees of the Atlanta Police Foundation, which wrote that he was “a dedicated leader, a tireless advocate for public safety and a steadfast supporter of our mission to build a safer, stronger Atlanta. His passion for community service and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others will leave a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed.”
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Ehmer leaves behind three children.
Waffle House has more than 1,900 locations in 25 states.
Contact Alicia Kelso at (email protected)
