Waffle House CEO Walt Emmer has died at the age of 58, the Atlanta Police Foundation announced in a Facebook post Sunday.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Walt Emmer, president and CEO of Waffle House and beloved member of the Atlanta Police Foundation Board of Directors,” the foundation wrote.
Waffle House's board of directors said in a statement Sunday afternoon that Emmer passed away after a long illness. According to To NBC News.
“He will be greatly missed by the entire Waffle House family,” the statement said.
Waffle House CEO Walt Emmer has passed away after a “long battle with an unknown illness.”
The 53-year-old was one of many CEOs who partnered with hospitals to offer incentives for employees to get vaccinated and wear masks.
Walt also spoke out against the 2020 lockdowns, saying restaurants… pic.twitter.com/MMKFd2uR3g
— Sudden Death (@DiedSuddenly_) September 9, 2024
Emmer held senior management roles at Waffle House, becoming president in 2002, 10 years after joining the company in 1992. He also served as a member of the Atlanta Police Foundation's board of trustees, according to NBC News.
“Walt was a committed leader, a fierce advocate for public safety and an unwavering supporter of our mission to build a safer and stronger Atlanta,” the foundation continued. Facebook “His passion for community service and unwavering 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 go out to his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed.”
According to the media, Emmer served as chairman of the Georgia Tech Alumni Association Board of Trustees from 2012 to 2013. He served on several organizations, including the Georgia Tech Foundation Board of Trustees and the Georgia Tech Advisory Council. (Related article: “The sounds of a Waffle House at 3am”: Charlamagne Tha God praises MTG, says Democrats have a “problem” with messaging)
The 24-hour Waffle House chain restaurant first opened in 1955. Today, there are more than 1,900 locations in 25 states, according to the outlet.
Emer is survived by three children. Atlanta Journal-Constitution Reported.
