Family, Community, and Teammates Gather to Honor Johnny Gaudreau
In a somber gathering on Monday, friends and family came together to pay their respects to NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically lost his life in a cycling accident last month. The atmosphere was filled with sorrow, yet it was also infused with heartfelt memories and emotional tributes.
The tragic incident took the lives of both Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew Gaudreau. The brothers were enjoying a bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when they were struck and killed by a drunk driver, according to police reports. The driver has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
Among those who attended the memorial were Johnny's Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, reflecting the high regard in which he was held in the hockey community. The bond shared between Johnny and his teammates was clearly evident, as they joined together to honor his memory.
Meredith Gaudreau, Johnny's wife, delivered a poignant eulogy that revealed both the pain of her loss and the enduring love she has for her husband. In a bittersweet revelation, Meredith shared that she is pregnant with their third child, a fact she disclosed amidst the emotional turmoil of the occasion. "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 expressed.
Her words painted a vivid picture of their life together, filled with joy and unexpected blessings. "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?'"
The couple's family includes two young children: Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. Meredith fondly remembered the last few months they spent together as a family of four. "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 said, her voice filled with both gratitude and heartache.
Meredith's recollections brought to light the depth of their bond and the joy they shared in everyday moments. "There's specifically one week that I will cherish forever -- it will be my favorite week of my life out of those six months," she added, encapsulating the precious memories that now serve as a source of comfort amid the grief.
The Gaudreau brothers were in New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister's wedding, underscoring the close-knit nature of their family. The impact of their loss is felt not only by Meredith but also by Matthew Gaudreau's wife, Madeline Gaudreau, who is expecting their first child. The shared sorrow among the families echoes the profound void left by the brothers' untimely departure.
As the hockey world and the community mourn the loss of a talented player and a loving husband and father, the focus remains on the legacy Johnny Gaudreau leaves behind. His passion for the game, dedication to his family, and the joy he brought to those around him will be remembered by all who knew him.
The Gaudreau family's resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy serves as a testament to their strength and love for one another. As they navigate this incredibly difficult period, the support of friends, teammates, and the broader community will undoubtedly play a crucial role in honoring Johnny’s memory and aiding their healing process.
In the days to come, the memories and stories shared about Johnny Gaudreau will continue to resonate, ensuring that his spirit remains alive in the hearts of those who loved and admired him.