Walt Ehmer, the president and CEO of Waffle House, has passed away.

He was 58.

Ehmer was also a member of the board of trustees for the Atlanta Police Foundation.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Walt Ehmer, president and CEO of Waffle House and a beloved member of the Atlanta Police Foundation’s Board of Trustees,” the Atlanta Police Foundation posted on Facebook.

“Walt was a dedicated leader, tireless advocate for public safety, and an unwavering supporter of our mission to build a safer, stronger Atlanta. His passion for community service and steadfast commitment to improving the lives of others will leave a lasting impact 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,” it added.

Waffle House CEO Walt Ehmer dead at 58 https://t.co/ho5BUkOOjS pic.twitter.com/v3x3u2pPMA

— New York Post (@nypost) September 9, 2024

From the Associated Press:

Ehmer joined Waffle House in 1992 and quickly rose to senior leadership, becoming president of the company in 2002, and later adding the titles of CEO and chairman, according to information from Georgia Tech University, his alma mater.

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

The board of directors for Waffle House issued a statement Sunday afternoon saying Ehmer died after a long illness. “He will be greatly missed by his entire Waffle House family,” the statement said.

Ehmer was chair of the Georgia Tech Alumni Association Board of Trustees from 2012 to 2013 and served numerous organizations, including the Georgia Tech Foundation Board and the Georgia Tech Advisory Board.

The Georgia Tech Alumni Association mourns the passing of Waffle House Chairman and dedicated Yellow Jacket Walt Ehmer, IE 89. Ehmer will be remembered for a lifetime of service, both to his alma mater and the broader community. pic.twitter.com/hU8w7VNmyu

— Georgia Tech Alumni (@gtalumni) September 8, 2024

Per Fox Business:

Waffle House told FOX Business that Ehmer passed away “following 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 of Walt’s 30+ year career at Waffle House. For now, we know all of you join us in extending our deepest condolences to Walt’s family. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said he was “saddened to learn” of Ehmer’s passing.

“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 news release. “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.”