The Maple Grove Crimson Football community is in mourning after the unexpected passing of Matt Leimbek, a beloved member of the team, who tragically died on February 26, 2025, due to cardiac arrest. The news has sent shockwaves through his family, friends, and the football community, as Matt was not only a devoted husband and father but also an invaluable part of the Crimson Football family. His death has left those who knew him heartbroken, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of crossing paths with him.
Matt’s sudden passing at the age of 45 has left his family and community in shock. He is survived by his wife, Melissa, and their two sons, Nathan and Nicholas. Matt’s family is now tasked with coping with this unexpected tragedy, and the pain of losing such a devoted and loving family man is something that will take time to heal. His wife, Melissa, and his children, Nathan, a high school senior, and Nicholas, a freshman, are left to navigate life without the strong, caring presence that Matt brought into their lives every day.
In the tight-knit community of Maple Grove, Matt was not only known for his love of football but also for his deep commitment to his family, his friends, and his community. He was a dependable figure, always ready to lend a helping hand, provide support, or offer a listening ear to anyone in need. He was known for his kindness, humility, and the way he made those around him feel valued and cared for. His contributions to the Maple Grove Crimson Football program were invaluable, and his commitment to the team went beyond the field. He was a mentor to many, offering guidance, leadership, and friendship to countless players, coaches, and volunteers over the years.
Those who knew Matt well describe him as one of the best family men. He was a dedicated father who put his children first, always striving to ensure they had everything they needed to succeed. Whether it was attending his son’s football games, helping with schoolwork, or simply spending quality time together as a family, Matt’s love for his children was evident in everything he did. As a husband, Matt was equally committed, providing unwavering support to his wife, Melissa. Their relationship was built on mutual respect, love, and a shared vision for their family’s future.
Matt’s impact on the Maple Grove community was far-reaching. He was an active participant in various activities, offering his time and talents to make a difference in the lives of others. His legacy as a coach, mentor, and community leader is something that will continue to inspire those who were lucky enough to know him. Matt’s work with the football program extended beyond the playing field. He believed in the power of sports to teach life lessons, instill discipline, and build character. His contributions to the team and the relationships he built with players, coaches, and other members of the community will never be forgotten.
The Maple Grove Crimson Football boosters, in recognition of Matt’s contributions to the program and his unwavering support for the team, have decided to make a donation to the Leimbek family during this difficult time. This gesture is a testament to the deep respect and admiration the community has for Matt and his family. In addition to the booster donation, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help support the future education of Matt’s two sons. Nathan, who is a high school senior, and Nicholas, a freshman, are both planning to attend college in the coming years, and the funds raised will go toward helping with their educational expenses. This initiative is aimed at providing some financial relief to the Leimbek family as they cope with the loss of their loved one.
The GoFundMe campaign has been met with an overwhelming response from the Maple Grove community and beyond. Matt’s friends, family, and former colleagues have come together to contribute to the fund, demonstrating the powerful impact Matt had on those around him. The outpouring of love and support for the Leimbek family has been a source of comfort during this incredibly difficult time. In a statement, the Leimbek family expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the support they’ve received, saying, “We are deeply grateful for the love and generosity of our community. The outpouring of support has been truly overwhelming, and we are comforted knowing that Matt’s legacy will live on through the kindness and support of those around us.”
While Matt’s passing is a tremendous loss, his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy as a loving father, husband, and friend is something that will never be forgotten. His dedication to his family and the football community will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of working with him. The lessons he imparted to those around him—lessons of hard work, perseverance, and kindness—will continue to shape the lives of the players and coaches who were influenced by his example.
As the Leimbek family moves forward in their grief, they are finding comfort in the memories of Matt’s life. They are reflecting on the love, joy, and laughter that he brought into their lives and the way he touched the lives of so many others. Matt’s influence extended far beyond the football field, and his legacy will continue to impact the Maple Grove community for years to come.
The loss of Matt Leimbek is a reminder of the importance of family, community, and supporting those we love. His sudden passing has left an emptiness in the lives of his family, friends, and the football community, but it has also highlighted the incredible bond that Matt shared with those around him. His life was one filled with love, service, and dedication to others, and it is those qualities that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
The GoFundMe campaign will remain open for those who wish to contribute to the Leimbek family’s future. The funds will provide much-needed support for Nathan and Nicholas as they pursue their educational dreams, helping to ensure that their father’s legacy lives on in their accomplishments. Those who knew Matt are encouraged to visit the GoFundMe page to donate and show their support for the family during this difficult time.
In the coming weeks, the Maple Grove Crimson Football community will hold a memorial to honor Matt’s life and legacy. This event will provide a space for family, friends, and the community to come together to celebrate the incredible man Matt was and the impact he had on the lives of those around him. The memory of Matt Leimbek will live on, and his influence will continue to shape the Maple Grove Crimson Football program and the broader community for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Matt Leimbek. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy as a devoted family man, friend, and leader will never be forgotten. Thank you for everything you gave to your family, your community, and the world around you. Your impact will live on forever.
