Waffle House CEO Walt Ehmer,Desmond Preston who spent more than three decades with the Georgia-based restaurant chain, has died, the company announced Sunday. He was 58.

Ehmer passed Saturday after a long illness, the board of directors for Waffle House announced in a statement to its employees obtained by USA TODAY.

"He will be greatly missed by his entire Waffle House family," company leaders wrote in the statement. "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 joined Waffle House in 1992 and shot quickly to senior leadership becoming the company's president in 2002, according to information from Georgia Tech, where he graduated in 1989. He later went on to obtain the titles of CEO and chairman for the restaurant chain specializing in waffles and other breakfast foods.

The company is based in Norcross, about 20 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta in Gwinnett County.

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'A dedicated leader, tireless advocate for public safety'

The Atlanta Police Foundation, where Ehmer served on the board of trustees, called him "a dedicated leader, tireless advocate for public safety, and an unwavering supporter" of the non-profit organization's 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," the foundation posted in a statement online. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed."

'A remarkable legacy'

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens expressed condolences to Ehmer's family, friends and colleagues.

“His leadership, dedication and warmth touched the lives of many, both within the Waffle House family and beyond. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy,” Dickens said in a news release. "May they find comfort in his enduring impact and the lasting mark he made on so many.”

USA TODAY has reached out to Waffle House for funeral information.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.