Walt Ehmer, the president and CEO of Waffle House and a member of the board of trustees for the Atlanta Police Foundation, passed away at the age of 58, as announced by the foundation on Sunday. Ehmer's tenure at Waffle House began in 1992, where he steadily climbed the ranks to senior leadership. By 2002, he had assumed the role of president, later taking on the titles of CEO and chairman. His alma mater, Georgia Tech University, provided this information.
Mayor Andre Dickens expressed his sentiments, stating, 'His leadership, dedication, and warmth touched the lives of many, both within the Waffle House family and beyond. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy.' The board of directors at Waffle House confirmed Ehmer's passing on Sunday afternoon, citing a prolonged illness as the cause. They added, 'He will be greatly missed by his entire Waffle House family.'
During his career, Ehmer held various leadership positions, including chair of the Georgia Tech Alumni Association Board of Trustees from 2012 to 2013. He was actively involved in several organizations, such as the Georgia Tech Foundation Board and the Georgia Tech Advisory Board.
Established in 1955, the Waffle House chain has grown to over 1,900 locations across 25 states, known for its around-the-clock service. Ehmer is survived by three children, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
