Wil Vicinus

William (Wil, Billy) Edward Vicinus passed from this life on June 8th, 2025.  A beloved son, brother, friend and coach, Wil leaves behind a community of people with whom he had lasting impact, who loved him dearly, and who miss him greatly.  

Wil was born in January of 1970 and grew up in Plainville, CT.  As the youngest of four siblings, all close in age, he was the darling son and grandson of proud parents and grandparents.  A member of the class of 1988, he graduated from Plainville High School where he participated in chorus, theater and cross-country.  

Wil possessed an entrepreneurial spirit and a strong independent streak, breaking out on his own to Philadelphia in 1997.  In 2006, he launched Fearless Athletics | South Philly, a gym and fitness center focussed not only on physical strength and well-being, but also on personal growth, self-discovery, and innate power.  Wil pursued his dream of athletic training with zeal and passion, becoming CrossFit Level 3 Certified, CrossFit Olympic Weightlifting Certified, a USA Weightlifting Level 2 Coach, and a Certified Adaptive and Inclusive Trainer.  He had many additional nutrition and training certifications.  Wil had a loyal following of members who believed in the mission and thrived in the environment.  Wil’s years as owner and operator of Fearless Athletics offered him some of the proudest accomplishments and demonstrated his strength of character and depth of compassion for others.

Wil leaves behind his father, Paul Vicinus, Sr. and three siblings, sisters Mary-Ellen Vicinus and Karen (Vicinus) Belyea, and brother Paul Jr.  He is also greatly missed by his step-sister Justine, sister-in-law Joanie, brother-in-law Dan, nieces and nephews Mitchell, Subrena, Austin, Carrie, Cody, Brandon, Kayla, Brittany, Brandon and Jake.  He also leaves friends and partners who cared deeply for Wil and are counted among family members. He was predeceased by his loving mother, Jacqueline (Francoeur) Vicinus.

A celebration of life will be held at the William Way Community Center, 1315 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA on Sunday, June 29th, from 1-3 PM.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Phoenix: National Sober Active Community which was a very important organization that Wil supported through his gym.