The Waffle House CEO Passed Away At Age 58

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The Waffle House CEO and President Walter G. “Walt” Ehmer passed away, at the age of 58.

The Atlanta Police foundation posted a Meta tribute to Ehmer. 

“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.”

“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.”

Walt Ehmer was the President and CEO of Waffle House, a popular American restaurant chain known for its 24/7 service and Southern-style menu. Ehmer joined Waffle House in 1992 and worked his way through various positions, including leadership roles in operations and finance. He became CEO in 2012.

Ehmer is known for his focus on maintaining Waffle House’s strong company culture, which emphasizes customer service, a sense of community, and the hard work of its employees. Under his leadership, Waffle House has remained a privately owned company, and it continues to expand its presence across the United States.

He gained public attention for how Waffle House responded during crises like natural disasters, keeping restaurants open as long as possible to serve communities, even during hurricanes. The “Waffle House Index” is often used by FEMA as an informal measure of the severity of a disaster, based on whether local Waffle Houses remain open.

The Waffle House was Founded in 1955 in Avondale Estates, Georgia, by Joe Rogers Sr. and Tom Forkner, it has grown to almost 2,000 locations, primarily in the southeastern United States. There are locations in 25 states.

The restaurant is best known for its breakfast items, such as waffles, eggs, bacon, and hash browns, which can be ordered any time of day. Its signature dishes include pecan waffles, and the customizable hash browns (“scattered, smothered, covered, etc.”) have become iconic.

The company is known for its casual, welcoming atmosphere, with a focus on friendly service. Customers often enjoy the open kitchen layout, where they can watch their food being cooked. Think diner style experience.

Several tributes have been posted to X:

Rest In Peace.