William Willits
1965 - 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of William (“Bill”) Joseph Willits on November 6, 2025, in his 60th year. Bill is lovingly remembered by his wife Jessie, his children Giorgia (Eric), Eric, and Helena, his stepson Tristan, and his siblings Kevin (Karen), Darin (Andra), and Sarah (Terry). He was predeceased by his parents, Betty and Melburn.
Born in Woodstock, Ontario, on April 2, 1965, Bill’s lifelong curiosity and mechanical mind were evident from an early age. He went on to study Civil Engineering at the University of Waterloo, where “Young Bill” met his first wife, Carla Simone. After their marriage in 1991, the couple relocated from Toronto to Southern California, where they planted roots and raised their family.
Over time, Bill transitioned from civil to software engineering—a shift that spoke to his adaptability and intellect. This was a career that ultimately all three of his children followed him into.
An adventurous spirit to his core, Bill lived life at full throttle. He was fearless—whether on dirt bikes, motorcycles, skis, or a triathlon course. His friends affectionately called him “Wildman,” a name he more than earned. His greatest athletic milestone came in 2015, when he proudly completed his first Ironman Triathlon.
In 2017, Bill married Jessie Steward, and together they made their home in Northern California. They enjoyed traveling together for triathlons, snowboarding trips, RV adventures, and equestrian competitions. Their home was always full of energy thanks to the dogs Blaze & Maple.
Bill will be remembered as a man of integrity, discipline, and generosity. He was a kind and gentle father who was always willing to go the extra mile for his children.
He will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who loved him.
Bill suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) as a result of a cycling accident in August 2025. In Bill’s memory, please consider a donation to the Brain Injury Association of America to support research into TBI and its hidden neurological effects, focusing on the prevention of severe psychological complications and suicide.
You can donate at: https://biausa.org/
The Willits family will be hosting a Celebration of Life on December 5th in Orange County, CA. You can see Event Details and RSVP at
https://pp.events/bjwillits
Born in Woodstock, Ontario, on April 2, 1965, Bill’s lifelong curiosity and mechanical mind were evident from an early age. He went on to study Civil Engineering at the University of Waterloo, where “Young Bill” met his first wife, Carla Simone. After their marriage in 1991, the couple relocated from Toronto to Southern California, where they planted roots and raised their family.
Over time, Bill transitioned from civil to software engineering—a shift that spoke to his adaptability and intellect. This was a career that ultimately all three of his children followed him into.
An adventurous spirit to his core, Bill lived life at full throttle. He was fearless—whether on dirt bikes, motorcycles, skis, or a triathlon course. His friends affectionately called him “Wildman,” a name he more than earned. His greatest athletic milestone came in 2015, when he proudly completed his first Ironman Triathlon.
In 2017, Bill married Jessie Steward, and together they made their home in Northern California. They enjoyed traveling together for triathlons, snowboarding trips, RV adventures, and equestrian competitions. Their home was always full of energy thanks to the dogs Blaze & Maple.
Bill will be remembered as a man of integrity, discipline, and generosity. He was a kind and gentle father who was always willing to go the extra mile for his children.
He will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who loved him.
Bill suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) as a result of a cycling accident in August 2025. In Bill’s memory, please consider a donation to the Brain Injury Association of America to support research into TBI and its hidden neurological effects, focusing on the prevention of severe psychological complications and suicide.
You can donate at: https://biausa.org/
The Willits family will be hosting a Celebration of Life on December 5th in Orange County, CA. You can see Event Details and RSVP at
https://pp.events/bjwillits
William Willits's Guestbook
Visits: 452
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors