Waffle House president and CEO dies at 58

ATLANTA (WANF/Gray News) - Walt Ehmer, president and CEO of Waffle House, has died.

Ehmer, who had been overseeing the popular breakfast restaurant chain since 2012, passed away at the age of 58.

Waffle House said in a statement that Ehmer died following a “long illness.”

“I am saddened to learn of the passing of Walt Ehmer, the CEO of Waffle House and a proud Georgia Tech alumnus. His leadership, dedication and warmth touched the lives of many, both within the Waffle House family and beyond. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy,” Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said. “My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. May they find comfort in his enduring impact and the lasting mark he made on so many.”

Ehmer served on the Atlanta Police Foundation’s Board of Trustees. The foundation described Ehmer as a “dedicated leader” and “tireless advocate for public safety” adding that he had a “passion for community service and steadfast commitment to improving the lives of others.”

Waffle House first opened in 1955 in Avondale Estates, Georgia, when Joe Rogers Sr. and Tom Forkner decided to open a “24-hour, sit-down restaurant for their friends and neighbors.”

There are now more than 1,900 Waffle House locations in 25 states. All restaurants are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Copyright 2024 WANF via Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved.