This article was updated Nov. 27, 2024: Memorial service details added.

Geneseo, Kan., veterinarian and farrier Matt Wimer, DVM, CJF, passed away unexpectedly, Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital announced Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024.

After graduating from Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2014, he was an intern in the podiatry department at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky. 

“We know that Dr. Wimer’s commitment and care to his community have had a profound impact on many people and friends,” according to the Rood & Riddle Equine Podiatry Facebook post. “[He was a] friend like no other. Your infectious laughter, unwavering support, and genuine kindness touched everyone who knew you. We shared countless adventures — endless days devoted to helping horses and their owners, each one filled with your unique spirit. While your physical presence is gone, the memories we made together will forever live on in our hearts. You taught us to embrace life to the fullest, to always find joy in the little things, and to be there for one another. We will carry your legacy with us, always remembering the incredible person you were. Rest in peace, dear friend.”

He returned to Kansas to operate Ranchland Forge and teach chiropractic care at Parker University in Dallas, Texas. He was active in the education of veterinarians and farriers, which included visiting vet schools to speak with students. Most recently, he was a guest on the “On the Rail Podcast” in which he discussed foot health, chiropractic care, dentistry and nutrition.

“We are deeply saddened to hear about the sudden passing of our recent guest, Dr. Matt Wimer,” according to a Facebook post. “We are thankful for the opportunity to record his knowledgeable words when we could. After the episode, we had further conversations with Doc about following up with more topics. He was so excited to share his knowledge.”

Kelly Foster, a vet school classmate, recalls the bond they developed at Kansas State.

“Somewhere in that first month of school, he informed me that we were now family,” according to her Facebook tribute. “I laughed and said, ‘I’ve already got 4 little brothers and one is named Matthew?!’ To which Matt replied, ‘Well now you have a big brother named Matthew!’ And that was that. He’s called me Sis since that day. That summer at my wedding, he introduced himself to my father with, ‘Hello Sir. I’m your other son Matthew.’ That’s the thing with Matthew, once he’d claimed you it was over. You were his. He loved you big. He’d fight for you fiercely. He’d be there in every way he could with his whole big heart behind it.”

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, at Salemsborg Lutheran Church. A private family inurnment will take place before the service.