‘He was a father first:’ Friend remembers late Regina firefighter Mathew Lubiniecki

Mathew Lubiniecki is being remembered as a wonderful friend, caring father and devoted community member.

“He was a father first,” said Kent Bittner, one of Lubiniecki’s friends. “He leaves behind two young girls, and they meant everything to him. His family was important to him.”

On April 3, Lubiniecki died suddenly of natural causes at 38 years of age. Lubiniecki was known in the community as a firefighter with Regina Fire and Protective Services.

Lubiniecki leaves behind his spouse Jaeme, and two daughters Brooklyn and Camilla.

Bittner spoke on behalf of the family, who requested privacy at this time.

“As far as being a firefighter with the Regina fire department, he took pride in that, he took pride in tradition (and) he took pride in the job,” Bittner said. “It was important to help others in his daily life, whether that be a friend, a neighbour or family.”

In a social media post, Regina Fire said Lubiniecki was a member of the fire department for 13 years, and would be greatly missed.

It is with great sadness we share the passing of Firefighter Mathew Lubiniecki Mat was a very valuable member of our fire family for 13 years and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and support are with Mat’s family and all department members during this time. #YQR pic.twitter.com/bMhfEP7a1p

— Regina Fire (@Regina_Fire) April 8, 2024

Bittner and Lubiniecki were close friends for several decades. Later in life they became neighbours.

Bittner said Lubiniecki’s uncanny humour kept people on their toes.

“Being a neighbour, and essentially being a construction guy, a super-handyman, it was never, never a doubt that two doors down I had someone to help me out,” said Bittner. “It didn’t matter what it was in life.”

Bittner’s partner started a GoFundMe page on behalf of the Lubiniecki family.

So far, donations have surpassed the goal by almost $13,000. As of Wednesday morning, almost $38,000 of donations had been given. A single donation of $2,000 has been the highest given so far.

Over the past few days, Bittner said the donations and memories shared about Lubiniecki have been heartwarming. He said Lubiniecki’s family has expressed their sincere appreciation to the community.

Regina firefighter Mathew Lubiniecki and his daughters, Camilla (left) and Brooklyn. (Regina Fire and Protective Services/X)