Dave Thomas: 1932-2002

America lost more than a businessman Monday night when Dave Thomas, patriarch of the fast food giant Wendy's, died at his home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, at the age of 69. It lost a social activist, author, and an instantly-recognizable TV personality. Thomas, who lost a lengthy battle with liver cancer, was a leading proponent of adoption awareness, and dedicated much of his time and wealth to the cause. He was also a celebrity of sorts, as the result of appearing in the burger chain's humorous commercials. In addition, he authored two books detailing his life, success, and personal philosophies.

Thomas founded his first Wendy's in Columbus, Ohio in 1969, and by 1996 the chain (Wendy was his daughter Melinda's nickname), consisted of 4,800 establishments in the United States and more than 30 countries across the globe. He achieved all of this without earning his high school diploma (he did finally receive one in 1993), which he later listed as one of the biggest mistakes of his life. "We have 4,000 restaurants today, but if I had gotten my high school diploma, we might have 8,000," he said.

But his work outside of the burger world was just as important to him as his business endeavors. Thomas, who was himself adopted, became an outspoken supporter of adoption and adoption awareness. He donated the profits from his two books, "Dave's Way," and "Well Done," to his foundation, the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. He also appeared before Congress to stress the importance of motivating Americans to adopt children. "I know firsthand how important it is for every child to have a home and loving family," he said. "Without a family, I would not be where I am today."