Willis Lee Whitmyer II
Willis Lee Whitmyer II passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones, his dogs, and his woods. He was wrapped up in love, prayer and the good music of Hank, Bon Jovi and his boy, Luke Combs. Willis was born on November 15, 1970, in South Bend, Indiana to the most amazing parents, Willis and Geri (Hamilton) Whitmyer. Yes, you read that right, he was born on the opening day of deer hunting season in Irish Country.
Willis spent much of his childhood playing outside with his cousins, competing with his father, doing the moonwalk, watching sports, riding motorcycles, shooting guns and shooting hoops. As a middle schooler, Willis broke his femur playing rocket football. After months in the hospital, a full-body cast, homeschooling and around-the-clock care from family, he busted out of that cast with a heart of gratitude and determined to get to work. He devoted his time to working hard and playing harder, all while doing his chores in under 15 minutes… which drives his sister, Theresa, crazy to this day.
Willis grew up in Cassopolis where he graduated from Ross Beatty High School with more than a degree as he and Cheryl (McIntyre) gave birth to their daughter, Kayla Lynn. Willis attended Michigan State University and Olivet College where he obtained his bachelor’s degree in a calling that would leave an everlasting mark on thousands. Willis and Cheryl later gave birth to their son, Kraig Lee, one of their greatest blessings. He continued education to earn a master’s degree in educational leadership at Nova Southeastern University, where he claims to never have missed a single point on an assignment (which has not been verified).
He dedicated his life to making the world around him better. Whether it was in his home as a father and husband, on the court as a coach, in the classroom as a teacher or in the community as a leader and mentor, his impact was not only felt and cherished, but also it spread like wildfire. Through teaching and coaching he reached generations upon generations of people with his messages of unwavering character. The hunting and fishing class he developed at Eaton Rapids HS sparked a thirst for the outdoors in his students. This was exceptionally special to him as his church was the woods, and his pew was his tree stand. This is where his close relationship with Jesus was built, honored and treasured.
In 2019, he married his new hunting partner, Kim, a woman of unfaltering faith and family. His blessings continued to increase tenfold as his family grew. Willis committed his life to the ones he loved, and he always showed up for them. A fierce force of unconditional, selfless love that forever changes those who are blessed to have felt it. He got a kick out of his own jokes, pulled the most clever pranks and brought the fun. Willis was a man of his word, a man who stood up for what was right no matter the cost, an intentional man who took advantage of each teachable moment, a man who changed every room with his humor and magnetic personality, one who never gave up on himself or others, and a man who loved his family more than anything.
Willis is preceded in death by his loyal companion, Knute Rockne, who has been chewing on tractor seats and hot tub covers awaiting his arrival. He is lovingly remembered by his wife and forever-honey, Kim, whose kind heart and steadfast selfless love brought him great joy; his parents, Geri and Willis, who raised a hard-working, hard-loving, man of integrity; his children, Kayla (Chelsie) and Kraig who are building beautiful lives on the foundation of character he helped to form. The blessings continue to overflow with bonus daughters, Bailey (Carson) and Brooke (Tony), and grandkids, Ryder and Kinsey (Chelsie & Kayla), who brought immeasurable love and laughter to his life.
Willis is also remembered by his siblings, Theresa (Mike), Adanna, Bryce, special nieces and their families, loving family, friends, colleagues, students, players and the community that he deeply impacted. Undoubtedly, he played like a champion, and his legacy is one of the ages.
The fifth horseman has arrived and is wrapped up in the arms of Touchdown Jesus. A celebration of a life well-lived will be held in his honor on Wednesday, Aug. 19 at Eaton Rapids High School (800 State Street, Eaton Rapids, Michigan 48827) from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Please join us for an open reception beginning at 4 p.m. A celebration of life honoring Willis Whitmyer II will begin at approximately 5:15 p.m., after which guests are invited to remain for continued fellowship.
All attendees are asked to wear Notre Dame attire, so put on your Irish blue, green or dome gold and GO IRISH!
In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask you to cast a line, walk the woods, and donate to Whit’s Legacy Fund (mail to 130 Hidden Forest Rd., Battle Creek, Michigan 49014; in care of Kayla Whitmyer).