Viral celebrity Eric Hites, aka "Fat Guy Across America" dies at 49

DANVILLE, Ind. - EntSun -- Eric Hites, a native of Indiana, who rose to international viral stardom in 2015 for riding a bicycle across the country in order to win the love of his estranged wife back, has died. He was 49. Hites' publicist confirmed the news.

Morbidly overweight at 567 pounds, the self-proclaimed 'Fat Guy Across America' captured the hearts of a nation after he decided to change his life by bicycling across America to shed the pounds he collected over the years and prove his love to his estranged wife, Angie. It was a story filled with drama, inspiration and extreme challenges, one that garnered worldwide attention. "I had to think of my future, financially, I needed to get healthy so I could work, so I could take care of my wife, take care of myself." A GoFundMe campaign raised about $20,000 to help Eric accomplish his goals.

Eric had considered gastric bypass surgery, but was inspired to do something altogether different when he heard the Proclaimers' song 'I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)'. The narrator of the 1988 hit vows to walk 500 miles (and 500 more) to prove his devotion, and that gave Eric his grand idea. Eric's story inspired countless people to believe in themselves, to fight for their dreams, and to never give up, no matter the odds. It was a love story as much as it was a weight loss journey. By the time Eric had reached Rhode Island, his wife Angie had already joined him.

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"By completing this ride I hope to encourage others to get up and get moving no matter their weight," Eric wrote at the beginning of his trip, when he said he weighed 560 pounds.

In a statement released today, Angie said, "Eric was a gentle giant and my best friend in this world. We celebrated what would have been our 16th wedding anniversary yesterday with lunch in the hospital and a giant embrace. We never grew apart, only closer. His face, laugh, and quick witted character will live on forever in my heart and mind." She continued, "He lived many lifetimes in the one life God gave him. He did it all despite being limited. He was very loved and will live on through his many posts on travels and inspirational videos. He left a digital footprint, as well as footprints on the hearts of many. Heaven gained one heck of an angel today."

Eric and Angie made a much publicized appearance together on the Dr. Phil Show in 2016.

The family requests privacy at this time.