The close-knit community of NHL players and fans came together on Monday to remember and honor the life of Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically lost his life in a cycling accident last month. The memorial service, held with heavy hearts, was attended by family, friends, Columbus Blue Jackets teammates, and even NHL commissioner Gary Bettman.
Johnny Gaudreau, a 31-year-old star known for his dazzling skills on the ice, met an untimely death while cycling with his brother, Matthew Gaudreau, in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The brothers were struck by a drunk driver, a devastating incident that claimed both of their lives. The driver has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
The brothers were in New Jersey for a joyous occasion, set to serve as groomsmen at their sister’s wedding. Instead, the day has been marked forever by unimaginable loss and heartbreak. Johnny leaves behind his wife, Meredith Gaudreau, who is courageously facing this period of grief and revelation.
Heartbreaking Revelations
In a poignant moment during her eulogy, Meredith Gaudreau unveiled a deeply personal and unexpected piece of news — she is pregnant with their third child. “We're actually a family of five. I'm in my ninth week of pregnancy with our third baby. A total surprise, but again, John was beaming and so excited,” she shared, her voice laden with mixed emotions.
Describing her last interaction with Johnny regarding her pregnancy, Meredith said, “I was so nervous because this was, again, a total surprise. But his reaction was just immediately kissing me and hugging me even though I was driving the car. After the initial excitement sank in, every time he looked at me, he would say, 'You're nuts, you know that? Three kids?'”
Their growing family already includes two young children, Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. The new addition to the family will be a testament to Johnny’s enduring legacy and the love he left behind.
Matthew Gaudreau's Family
Matthew Gaudreau’s wife, Madeline, is also expecting their first child. This period of what should have been joyful anticipation has undoubtedly become a complex blend of sorrow and hope, as their families navigate the uncharted waters of life after such an irreplaceable loss.
A Family's cherished Memories
Meredith Gaudreau looked back on the precious moments shared as a family of four with Johnny. “John and I had the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the best six months of my life,” she expressed, reflecting on the irreplaceable memories they created together.
She also highlighted a particularly special time, saying, “There's specifically one week that I will cherish forever -- it will be my favorite week of my life out of those six months.” These treasured memories underscore the deep bond and love that characterized their life together.
A Community Mourns
The memorial service also drew numerous players and personalities from the NHL, as colleagues and friends gathered to bid farewell to a beloved figure. Johnny Gaudreau’s impact on the game was significant, but his influence extended far beyond the ice. He was remembered not only as a skilled player but also as a loving family man and an exuberant presence.
Through tears and tributes, the hockey world stands united in its grief, holding onto the lasting memories of Johnny Gaudreau. The stories shared and the emotions expressed during the service reflect the profound void left by his and his brother's deaths. As the community holds Meredith, Madeline, and their families close, the legacy of the Gaudreau brothers remains an enduring testament to their lives cut short, yet profoundly lived.