Walt Ehmer joined Waffle House in 1992 and was named president in 2002. “He leaves behind a remarkable legacy,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.
Waffle House CEO Walt Ehmer, who worked for the Georgia-based restaurant chain for more than three decades, has died, the company announced Sunday. He was 58 years old.
Ehmer died Saturday after a long illness, Waffle House’s board of directors said in a statement to employees obtained by USA TODAY.
“He will be greatly missed by his entire Waffle House family,” company leaders wrote in the statement. “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.”
Ehmer joined Waffle House in 1992 and quickly rose to the top levels of management, becoming president of the company in 2002, according to information provided by the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he graduated in 1989. He later became CEO and chairman of the board of the restaurant chain, which specializes in waffles and other breakfast foods.
The company is based in Norcross, about 20 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta in Gwinnett County.
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“A dedicated leader, tireless advocate for public safety”
The Atlanta Police Foundation, of which Ehmer served on the board of trustees, called him “a dedicated leader, a tireless advocate for public safety and a steadfast supporter” of the nonprofit’s 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,” the foundation wrote in an online statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed.”
“A remarkable legacy”
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens expressed his condolences to Ehmer’s family, friends and colleagues.
“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. “May they find comfort in his continued influence and the lasting impression he left on so many.”
USA TODAY has reached out to Waffle House for funeral information.
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter at USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X at @nataliealund.
