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Waffle House CEO and president Walt Ehmer has died at the age of 58, the Atlanta Police Foundation announced Sunday.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Walt Ehmer, President and CEO of Waffle House and valued member of the Board of Trustees of the Atlanta Police Foundation,” the foundation wrote in a Facebook post.

The foundation called Ehmer a “committed leader” and “tireless advocate for public safety” who “unwaveringly supports our mission to build a safer and 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,” the foundation said.

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Waffle House President and CEO Walt Ehmer speaks at a press conference. Ehmer died at the age of 58 after a long illness. (Jason Davis/Getty Images / Getty Images)

Waffle House told FOX Business that Ehmer died “after a long illness.”

“He will be greatly missed by his entire Waffle House family,” Waffle House said in a statement. “We will share more details in the coming days, including highlights from Walt’s 30-plus year career at Waffle House. For now, we know you join us in extending our deepest condolences to Walt’s family. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Aric Almirola, driver of the No. 43 Waffle House Ford, team owner Richard Petty and Waffle House CEO Walt Ehmer bake waffles before the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Bass Pro Shops NRA Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway on August 20, 2016 in Bristol (Rainier Ehrhardt/NASCAR via Getty Images / Getty Images)

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said he was “saddened by the news” of Ehmer’s death.

“His leadership, dedication and warmth touched the lives of many, both within the Waffle House family and beyond. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy,” Dickens said in a press release. “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.”

According to the Georgia Tech Alumni Association, Ehmer joined Waffle House in 1992 and rose to the top levels of management until he became president of the company in 2006.

He served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Georgia Tech Alumni Association from 2012 to 2013 and as a member of the Georgia Tech Board of Trustees and Advisory Board.

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According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Ehmer leaves behind three children.