Walt Ehmer, the CEO and president of Waffle House, passed away at 58, the Atlanta Police Foundation announced Sunday. Ehmer joined the company in 1992 and quickly advanced, becoming president in 2002 and later assuming the roles of CEO and chairman, according to Georgia Tech, his alma mater.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens praised Ehmer’s impact, noting his leadership and warmth touched many inside and outside the Waffle House family. The Waffle House board confirmed his death after a prolonged illness, expressing their deep loss.

Ehmer’s service extended beyond Waffle House; he chaired the Georgia Tech Alumni Association Board of Trustees and contributed to various other organizations.

Founded in 1955, Waffle House has grown to over 1,900 locations across 25 states. Ehmer is survived by three children, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.