Dave Thomas

American restaurant owner and philanthropist

David "Dave" Thomas (July 2, 1932 – January 8, 2002) was the founder of Wendy's Old Fashioned Hamburgers, and was its chief executive officer (CEO). He never graduated from high school, but did earn his GED in 1993.

Dave Thomas
Thomas in 1998
Born
Rex David Thomas

(1932-07-02)July 2, 1932
DiedJanuary 8, 2002(2002-01-08) (aged 69)
Cause of deathNeuroendocrine cancer
Resting placeUnion Cemetery
Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
Occupation(s)Businessman, philanthropist
Years active1953–2002
Known forFounder of Wendy's
SpouseLorraine
Children5, including Melinda
Allegiance United States
Service/branch United States Army
Years of service1950–1953
Rank Staff sergeant

Thomas is also famous as a commercial spokesman for his company. He first appeared in a Wendy's TV commercial in 1989, and by the time he died, he had appeared in over 800, including every Wendy's commercial that aired in the 1990s.