If you really like your map, you can always try doing the 16 cycle! It honestly doesn't take too long (maybe 4-5 days max)!
I'd offer to give him a home but I'm sure if you do delete that someone will be able to hold onto him for you. I just don't TT (too many accidents on my part haha) and if someone is willing to give him back then they should definitely do so. Good luck!
If you ever cycle 16 for him, I have him on my town I restarted about 30 minutes ago! I'll keep him for you if you want, I know how it feels to lose your favourite villager, when I lost Stitches I reset without thinking, choice made well c: