Walter G. Emmer, the longtime president and CEO of Waffle House, has died at age 58, the Atlanta Police Foundation announced Saturday.
“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's Board of Trustees,” the nonprofit's officials said in a Facebook statement.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Walt Emmer, beloved President and CEO of Waffle House.
Contributor Atlanta Police Foundation On Saturday, September 7, 2024
“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 statement continued. “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 at this difficult time. He will be greatly missed,” the police force added.
Emmer joined the popular Georgia-based restaurant chain in 1992 as a senior buyer in the purchasing department. Promoted In 1996, he became head of purchasing. Newnan Times Herald.
He became the company's executive vice president in 1999, chief financial officer in 2001, president in 2006 and CEO in 2012.
In a 2023 interview with the newspaper, Emmer said the secret to Waffle House's success is “our people.”
“We're in the talent business. We're all about talent. There's no big secret,” he says. “I always tell people it's just bacon and eggs.”
Check it out — “It takes a real man to do this” — Valentine's Waffle House proposal:
John Cox (via Storyful)
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens (Democrat) responded to Ehmer's death, saying: statement According to information obtained by FOX5, the restaurateur leaves behind a “remarkable legacy.”
We were saddened to learn of the passing of Waffle House CEO and Georgia Tech graduate Walt Emmer. His leadership, dedication and warmth touched so many lives, both within and outside the Waffle House family, and he left an incredible legacy. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. May they find solace in the lasting impact and permanent mark he left on so many.
In addition to the Atlanta Police Foundation, Emmer also Provided He serves on local boards including Aaron's, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Metro Atlanta Commerce, according to AL.com.
The cause of Emmer's death has not yet been released.
