Though the Times article did not mention the restaurant — Mr. Hovater had identified himself as a welder by trade — people appalled by his views learned that he worked there and began calling and leaving online messages.

The manager, who asked that his name not be used out of fear for his safety, said that there were dozens of angry, crude and threatening messages and that employees were scared.

In a brief telephone interview, Mr. Hovater said, “they decided to can me.” In a text message exchange, Mr. Hovater added, “we’re moving because of safety reasons.”