The leaders of the National Restaurant Association share in the loss of one of our industry’s giants, Dave Thomas, founder of Wendy’s, who passed away early this morning.
The passing of Dave Thomas is a profound loss for the restaurant industry. Dave was a courageous and compassionate American innovator and entrepreneur who touched the lives of so many people.
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More than a popular culture icon, created by his appearance in thousands of television commercials, Dave Thomas lived and worked the American Dream. From humble beginnings, he achieved an unprecedented level of success in a highly competitive segment of the restaurant business. Although Dave Thomas achieved the American dream and had incredible success, he always remembered his roots and where he came from. He truly was an American business hero.
Dave Thomas embodied the quintessential values and spirit of the American restaurateur. While he was recognized countless times for his leadership and ingenuity within the industry, he was most passionate about participating in and serving communities around the country. His inspiring acts of generosity and his devotion to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption will be forever remembered.
Within the restaurant industry, his influence will certainly be missed, but his impact will remain for generations to come.
