In Buffalo, Minnesota on April 19, 2025, the community lost a devoted friend and neighbor when Matthew D. Johnson, age 40, succumbed to injuries sustained in a single‑vehicle automobile accident . Born April 25, 1984, Matthew called Buffalo—and earlier, Brooten—home, where he built a life rooted in service, faith, and family .
Buffalo—county seat of Wright County—is a river‑valley city of 16,168 residents as of the April 1, 2020 census . Known for its tight‑knit neighborhoods and rolling lakeshore parks, it was here that Matthew forged bonds that would endure beyond his years.
A Life Remembered
Roots and Community Ties
Matthew’s journey began in nearby Brooten, but Buffalo became the backdrop for his most cherished memories: volunteering at community clean‑ups, coaching youth soccer, and lending a steady hand to neighbors during harsh Minnesota winters . His warmth and steady humor made him a familiar face at downtown gatherings and local fundraisers.
Faith and Fellowship
As an active member of Grace Baptist Church, Matthew found purpose in worship, small‑group leadership, and outreach missions. He often spoke of faith as a compass, guiding him through life’s challenges and inspiring him to extend compassion without reserve.
The Accident and Its Aftermath
On the night of April 19, local authorities responded to a crash on Highway 55, where Matthew’s vehicle left the roadway. Despite rapid transport to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries, prompting an outpouring of grief across Buffalo . Friends and family praised his calm courage in crisis and his ability to brighten even the darkest moments.
Honoring Matthew’s Memory
Visitation and Funeral Services
Family, friends, and community members are invited to pay their respects at a visitation on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and again on Friday, April 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at Grace Baptist Church (1704 Hazel Hill Road SE, Alexandria, MN 56308) . A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Friday, officiated by Pastor Mark Reynolds, celebrating Matthew’s faith, family devotion, and servant’s heart.
Funeral Home and Arrangements
Hoplin‑Hitchcock Funeral Home—serving both Glenwood and Brooten communities—has been entrusted with final arrangements, reflecting Matthew’s deep ties to each of these Wright County towns .
Buffalo’s Tribute and Legacy
In the days following Matthew’s passing, Buffalo’s parks bloomed with flowers left at memorials, and local civic groups organized a scholarship fund in his name to support high‑school athletes—honoring his love of youth mentorship and community sports .
Matthew D. Johnson’s life reminds us that true impact is measured not by years, but by love freely given and service rendered without seeking acclaim. As Buffalo gathers to remember him, may his legacy of kindness and steady generosity guide us all.
Sources Consulted
-
Legacy.com: Matthew D. Johnson, age 40 of Buffalo (formerly Brooten), died Saturday, April 19, 2025, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident .
-
Legacy.com: Obituary details emphasizing his devotion to family and church .
-
Echovita.com: Birth and death dates; service times and location at Grace Baptist Church; funeral home care by Hoplin‑Hitchcock Funeral Home .
-
Wikipedia – Buffalo, Minnesota: Buffalo is the county seat of Wright County, in central Minnesota .
-
U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Buffalo city population as of April 1, 2020, was 16,168 .
-
Hoplin‑Hitchcock Funeral Home: Local funeral‑home arrangements for Buffalo and Brooten residents