It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dearest loved one, Matthew William Hoffman, formerly of McCook, NE, who unexpectedly passed away March 22, 2024 in Kearney, NE at 20 years young.
Matt, as he was known, was born on September 30, 2003 to Stephanie Sydow in Kearney, NE. Matt was a momma’s boy, the sweet baby of five children, and a dear brother to Ashley, Amber, Aubrey, and Aric. Matt spent the majority of his childhood growing up in McCook, NE, where he impacted many lives in the community. He graduated from McCook High School in 2021, a great source of pride given his experience with dyslexia and dysgraphia.
Matthew was currently employed at the Embecta factory in Holdrege but was tenaciously working towards being self-employed. Matthew was known for his entrepreneurial drive and spirit, a gift that cannot be taught. He started many business ventures individually and with his friends, from drop shipping and investing to selling Spearmint Lifesavers to his high school classmates after realizing the demand from his personal inventory. Matt was known for his exceptional work ethic and determination and was cared for by all he worked with. While employed at the family nursery, Common Scents, Matthew planted many trees in the community and surrounding areas - a legacy that is sure to grow, prosper, and live on through his efforts to enrich this community.
Outside of work, Matt enjoyed gaming with friends, longboarding, hitting the gym, fishing, hanging out with his fur babies, Callie and Klaus, and spending quality time with his friends and family. Matthew had a passion for marine life (especially sharks), and was lovingly known as “Shark King.”
Matthew was truly unique— he had a brilliant smile and infectious laugh, a selfless heart, and a calming presence; all treasures we have been lucky to know. He had a special connection with animals and a desire to leave the world a better place.
Matthew is survived by his mother, Stephanie Sydow (McCook, NE); furkids Klaus (dog) and Callie (cat); sisters Ashley Sydow (Logan Roepke, McCook, NE), Amber Hopkins (Alex Hopkins, McCook,NE) Aubrey Sydow (Grant Maledy, O’Fallon, MO); brother Aric Sydow (McCook, NE); grandparents Bruce and Debbie Hoffman (McCook, NE); nieces Eden, Karsyn, and Freya (McCook, NE); nephew Reed (McCook,NE); and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Matthew is preceded in death by his great-grandparents Bill and Phyllis Douglass (Casper, WY).
Memorials in Matthew’s honor, in lieu of flowers, can be made to the McCook Humane Society, PO Box 13, McCook, NE 69001; other memorial funds will be designated by the family to causes important to Matt, such as dyslexia awareness, shark conservation, and youth entrepreneurship.