In Loving Memory of Matthew Ptaszynski

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Matthew Ptaszynski, who departed this world unexpectedly on August 11, 2026. Matt was born on April 3, 1984, in Detroit, Michigan, and throughout his life, he brought light and laughter to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Matt was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He is survived by his cherished wife of 16 years, Sarah, and their three beautiful children, Luke, Lucy, and Lily, all of whom reside in Buhler, Kansas. He is also survived by his devoted mother, Dawn Ptaszynski of Dimondale, Michigan, his brother Joseph Ptaszynski and his family, and his sister Veronica Emmendorfer and her family, and his best friends Andrew Oleksiak of Hamtramck, Michigan and Elijah Gehring of McPherson, Kansas. Matt was predeceased by his father, Steve Ptaszynski, and his brother, Kenneth Ptaszynski, who surely welcomed him with open arms.

Matt and Sarah were married on May 30, 2010, in Troy, Michigan, and together they built a loving family where joy, warmth and fun abounded. He was a loving and proud Dad to his 3 beautiful children. Matt was a dedicated employee at the CHS Refinery in McPherson, Kansas, for 11 years, serving both as a Refinery Operator and a Captain on the McPherson Refinery Emergency Response Team. His commitment to community service was evident through his role as a Volunteer Firefighter for the City of Buhler and as an Instructor at the Hutchinson Community College Fire Academy.

Beyond his professional life, Matt had a profound love for the outdoors. He was an avid waterfowl hunter, spending countless winters at the Wetlands, hunting geese and ducks. His playful and lighthearted spirit, known for never backing down from a good joke or movie quote, endeared him to everyone he met.

A celebration of Matt’s life will be held on October 3, 2026 from 5p-8p at the Buhler Fire Station at 301 N. Main Street, Buhler, Kansas. Family, friends, and all whose lives Matt touched are invited to gather in remembrance and gratitude for the time shared with him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Matt’s memory to First H.E.L.P., an organization dedicated to providing mental health services for First Responders.

The Ptaszynski family extends their deepest gratitude to CHS McPherson Refinery for their compassion and support during this difficult time, to the Buhler Fire Department for their generosity, to Buhler USD 313 for their support of the family, and to the Showalter and Vaughan Families for their support, along with numerous friends and community members for their unwavering support and love.

Matt’s memory will forever live in the hearts of those who loved him. His legacy of kindness, humor, and dedication to family and service will continue to inspire us all.