On Monday, a somber gathering took place as friends, family, and colleagues paid their respects to NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically lost his life in a cycling accident last month. The 31-year-old forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets was a prominent figure in the hockey world, known for his skill, dedication, and sportsmanship.
Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, were enjoying a bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when both were struck and killed by a drunk driver. The incident has left a gaping void in the lives of those who knew them. The driver involved in the tragic accident was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, as per police reports.
A Grieving Family
Meredith Gaudreau, Johnny’s wife, delivered an emotional eulogy where she revealed a touching and poignant detail—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.
Meredith’s revelation added a layer of bittersweet emotion to an already heart-wrenching day. The couple's growing family includes two young children, Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. Despite the joyous news of expecting another child, the tragedy casts a long shadow.
"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?'" Meredith recalled.
A Community in Mourning
Among those attending the memorial were Gaudreau’s Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. The outpouring of support from the hockey community underscores the impact Johnny Gaudreau had not only as an athlete but as a person.
Gaudreau and his brother were in New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister's wedding. Their plans for family celebrations were cruelly cut short, leaving their loved ones to navigate this profound loss.
Matthew Gaudreau’s wife, Madeline, is also expecting their first child, adding another layer of sorrow to the family’s grieving process. The news that both brothers were set to become fathers again makes their absence even more poignant.
Memories to Cherish
Meredith spoke fondly of their time together, particularly the last six months 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. The profound love and happiness they shared during this period will remain a cherished memory for her and their children.
She highlighted one week in particular that stood out to her, marking it as a precious time in her life. "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 noted. Such intimate recollections underscore the deep bond they shared and the irreplaceable loss she now faces.
The shocking loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau has left a lasting impact on everyone who knew them. As the community comes to terms with this tragedy, the shared memories and stories will ensure that the Gaudreau brothers' legacy lives on, both on and off the ice.