Waffle House CEO Walt Ehmer has passed away at the age of 58 after a prolonged illness. The company made the announcement on September 6, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of the business leader.
In a statement shared with PEOPLE, Waffle House honored Ehmer’s memory, saying, “He will be greatly missed by his entire Waffle House family.” The company noted that they would provide more details soon, including “highlights of Walt’s 30+ year career.”
The statement concluded with a call for support: “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.”
Ehmer, who is survived by three children, began his career with Waffle House in 1992. He worked his way up through the ranks, becoming president in 2002 and later ascending to the role of CEO. His tenure was marked by a dedication to both the company and his community.
In addition to his work with Waffle House, Ehmer was actively involved in civic activities. He served on the board of trustees for the Atlanta Police Foundation. On September 7, the foundation released a heartfelt statement mourning his death.
“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 foundation wrote in a Facebook post. “Walt was a dedicated leader, tireless advocate for public safety, and an unwavering supporter of our mission to build a safer, stronger Atlanta.”
The statement continued: “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.”
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Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens also paid tribute to Ehmer. “I am saddened to learn of the passing of Walt Ehmer, the CEO of Waffle House and a proud Georgia Tech alumnus,” Dickens said in a statement. “His leadership, dedication, and warmth touched the lives of many, both within the Waffle House family and beyond. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy. 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 was known for his deep commitment to both his company and his community. In 2020, he spoke to students at his alma mater, Georgia Tech, about what set Waffle House apart from its competitors. “We are one family,” Ehmer said. “Everybody does the same thing, everybody wears one uniform. But uniquely, every restaurant is also its own family.”
He emphasized that his leadership approach focused on prioritizing both customers and employees. “There’s no place for ego on a team. The higher up on the ladder you go, the more you have to make sure your people are successful,” Ehmer said.
Ehmer’s leadership and community involvement left a lasting impact on those who knew him. His passing marks the end of an era for Waffle House, a company he helped shape into a beloved institution with a strong family-oriented culture.
