William “Billy” Ryan Witte, 44, of Chicago, IL, passed away on Friday, December 29, 2023 peacefully in his sleep at his home. 

Billy was born on June 5, 1979 in Grand Rapids, MI to William Joseph and Roslynne Mattano Witte.  In February of 2020, he married the love of his life, Alexa Mather, in a ceremony on the beach in Mexico.  Billy and Alexa created a beautiful home and life together in Chicago alongside their fur babies, Lucy and Walter.  They traveled frequently to their favorite vacation spot - Maui, Hawaii.

Soon after returning home from their wedding, Billy started to feel symptoms.  He saw countless doctors all the while searching for an answer.  In May of 2021, he was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease).  Billy took the diagnosis hard, but he was surrounded by an army of clients, trainers, friends, and family that supported him throughout his journey.  Alexa continued to be the rock in Billy’s life as his biggest advocate and remained by his side until the end. 

Nearly 20 years ago, Billy started his career as a personal trainer in Chicago.  Billy's passion for health and fitness as well as his own transformation, gave him the urge to help anyone that wanted to be helped.  His compassionate and caring nature allowed people to connect with him on a personal level while achieving their health goals.  As a result, Billy not only helped hundreds of clients - he formed many cherished friendships over the years.

Billy fought a long and courageous battle.  He will be remembered for living a healthy lifestyle, having a positive impact on his clients, and his outgoing nature as well as the wonderful life he created with his wife and spending time with friends and family.  He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him, especially his parents, wife, and older brother.

Graveside services will be held at 12 Noon EST Thursday, January 4, at Resurrection Cemetery in Wyoming, MI with Rev. Mark Peacock officiating.

Burial will take place at Resurrection Cemetery in Wyoming, MI. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Billy’s wife, Alexa Mather-Witte.  It would also be a fitting tribute if you chose to make a contribution to an ALS organization such as I Am ALS, ALS United Greater Chicago, or Team Gleason Foundation.

Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.