Toledo Free Press

You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and in the manner in which you live. - Stuart Scott. Matt was a true testament to these beautiful words, and we are so proud of him.

Matt was born in Mansfield, Ohio to Mark and Nikki Williams. After Matt graduated from Mansfield Madison, he went on to study political science at The University of Toledo.

In 2001, while working at Banana Joe’s, Matt met Shondie, the love of his life, while they both attended college.

After obtaining his bachelor’s degree, Matt began a nearly twenty-year career at TNS.

Matt and Shondie were married in August of 2004 at All Saints Catholic Church. Matt gained a plus one in this arrangement and also became the best dad to son, Bryce. They went on to have two beautiful baby girls, his beloved Mia and Maci. Matt was the loudest supporter at Bryce’s basketball games and the girls’ volleyball games. There was no place he would rather be than supporting his children.

Matt’s true love and passion was CrossFit. He jumped in headfirst and snatched and cleaned his way to the fittest man we knew. His dedication and determination were a verifiable inspiration to all who knew him. His dream came true when he took full ownership of CrossFit Crowned in March of 2020, just weeks shy of Covid and the diagnosis; however, he persevered. He poured his heart and soul into that gym and his many loved members. His goal every day was to help the people he could lead stronger, healthier, more functional, and happier lives.

Matt is preceded in his death by his grandparents, James and Ellie Gentille, and Jack and Carolyn Williams.

He is survived by his wife of 19 years, Shondie; his children, Bryce, Mia, and Maci; his grandchildren, Zade and Zander; his parents, Mark and Nikki; his brother, Jimmy (Dana); and nieces, Avery and Norah. He is also survived by his beloved in laws; Cathy, Dave (Kelly); and brother-in-law, Chris.

The family will greet guests for visitation at Witzler-Shank-Walker Funeral Home, 222 E. South Boundary St, Perrysburg on Wednesday, April 10th from 4-7:00 pm. A funeral mass will be held Thursday, April 11th at 10:30 am at St. John XXIII, 24250 Dixie Highway, Perrysburg, OH, burial to follow in Ft. Meigs Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, any donation you may wish to make in Matt’s honor to benefit his daughters can be sent to Shondie’s Venmo account @Shondie-Williams.

The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Richard Phinney, Dr. Stephanie Panell, and Dr. Alexander Escobar from The University of Toledo as well as Dr. John Krauss at the University of Michigan.

Condolences may be made to the family online at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.