Matthew Barnett

Matthew Barnett, 44, passed away on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 under hospice care at his parents home in Salem. Funeral mass will begin at 10:30 am on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Salem. Visitation will be held from 5-7 pm with a 7 pm prayer service on Friday, June 27, 2025 at Kinzley Funeral Home in Salem.
With broken hearts and enduring love, we announce the passing of Matthew Keenan Barnett, who left us far too soon on June 18, 2025, at the age of 44.
Born on May 28, 1981, in Sioux Falls SD to John and Michele "Shelly" (Raney) Barnett. Matt was a proud graduate of St Mary's Elementary and McCook Central High School of Salem, Class of 2000. He pursued his love for science earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2004 and a Master of Arts in Biology in 2006 from the University of South Dakota. He went on to complete his Doctor of Optometry degree from the New England College of Optometry in 2012, with the goal of improving the lives and vision of his patients.
Matt had a deep and lifelong passion for sports and was active in basketball, baseball, football and golf. He was a devoted fan of UNC Tar Heels basketball and ND Fighting Irish football, cheering them on with unwavering loyalty and enthusiasm. His game-day energy was unmatched, often shared with friends and family who knew better than to root against his teams, wear an unlucky shirt, or not respect "the pause".
Matt was known for his infectious charm, magnetic personality, and razor-sharp wit. Traits that endeared him to friends, family, and anyone lucky enough to cross his path. Matt's genuine and kind nature had a way of making people feel at ease and truly seen. His ability to connect with others, to listen and lift people up, was a rare gift that touched countless lives.
Matt is survived by his loving parents, John and Shelly Barnett, Salem, SD. His brothers, Christopher (Mila) Dakota Dunes, SD, Patrick (Janelle) Hendersonville, NC, and Justin Barnett, Estherville, IA. He was deeply loved by his nieces and nephews: Cameron, Caden, Brendan, Emma, Joslyn, Allison, McKenna and Jack. He also leaves behind countless friends and extended family who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Dr Louis "Lou" and Margaret "Maggie" Barnett, and Robert "Bob" and Marjorie "Marj" Raney, whose love and influence shaped so much of who he was.
Matt's absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy of intelligence, kindness, humor, and unforgettable moments will live on in the stories we tell and the lives he touched.
Matt will be missed beyond measure and remembered always.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to be used in Matt's honor.