Ryder Matthew Willhite passed away peacefully at his home on July 31, 2023.

Ryder was born to Aaron and Candace Willhite on April 29, 2022 in Sioux Falls, SD. After a 40-day stay in the Sanford Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, he got to come home to his earthly home in Spearfish, SD.

Ryder was born with a rare genetic condition that meant he would never be able to sit up, crawl or learn to walk. Nearly every day of Ryder's 15-month life was a struggle. He never learned to talk and was unable to eat anything by mouth. Even breathing was a daily burden for sweet Ryder.

Despite these hurdles, Ryder's smile would light up any room he was in. Ryder touched every life he encountered in his short time on earth. He taught people the definition of perseverance, the power of a smile and the meaning of unconditional love. Ryder proved that the impact of being present is often greater than the impact of words. When he would listen to music, his bouncing arms and legs were a sign of pure joy and pointed directly to heaven. A life that could be viewed as the greatest tragedy was perhaps the greatest gift his family and friends could have ever been given. For a little boy who couldn't do anything for himself, Ryder did as much or more than any of us could hope to accomplish in this life.

He positively impacted and changed the lives of those around him for the better. From day one, he pointed to heaven. Perhaps he too understood the shortness of this life and the importance of the next. He certainly understands now.

May Ryder's life and legacy continue to point to Jesus and the better things to come.

Ryder is survived by many blessed people. His parents, Aaron and Candace, his big sister, Sophie, and his daycare provider, Deb. He is also survived by both sets of grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, the medical communities of Spearfish, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls and many friends who all loved him incredibly well on this earthly journey.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00PM on Friday, August 4, 2023 at Countryside Church in Spearfish.

For those that have asked about a memorial fund, we would ask that contributions be made to Sanford Children's/NICU Foundation, http://www.sanfordhealthfoundation.org/childrens Ronald McDonald House of South Dakota https://secure.qgiv.com/for/rmhcosd or Children's Miracle Network https://donate.childrensmiraclenetworkhospitals.org/?hospital=5110  These places had a huge impact on our journey with Ryder and we want to give back to them. You can specify that you would like the donation made in memory or honor of Ryder.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels and Isburg Crematory of Spearfish. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com