Tributes Pour In for NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau
Friends, family, and fans gathered on Monday to pay their heartfelt tributes to Johnny Gaudreau, the NHL star whose life was tragically cut short in a cycling accident last month. The memorial service brought together a community in mourning, with Gaudreau's Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman among those in attendance.
The devastating incident occurred when Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew were enjoying a bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. Both brothers were struck and killed by a drunk driver, a catastrophe that left a void in the lives of those who knew them. The driver involved in the tragic accident has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
Amid the sorrow, poignant moments and heartfelt tributes underscored the profound impact Johnny Gaudreau had on those close to him. Meredith Gaudreau, Johnny’s wife, offered a deeply emotional eulogy where she revealed a personal and unexpected blessing.
“We’re actually a family of five. I’m in my ninth week of pregnancy with our third baby,” she disclosed amidst tears. “A total surprise, but again, John was beaming and so excited.” This announcement added another layer of poignancy to an already heartbreaking occasion, highlighting the joys and future that Gaudreau and his family had looked forward to.
Meredith recounted the moment she shared the news with her husband. “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 growing family already includes two young children, Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. These cherished memories remain fresh and vivid for Meredith, who shared the depth of their familial bond.
“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. “There’s specifically one week that I will cherish forever -- it will be my favorite week of my life out of those six months.”
Apart from memories of intimate family moments, the Gaudreau brothers were also in New Jersey for a special reason—they were to serve as groomsmen for their sister’s wedding. This event, now bittersweet, echoes the close-knit and loving nature of their family.
The loss extends beyond Johnny, as Matthew Gaudreau leaves behind his wife, Madeline, who is expecting their first child. The premature departure of both brothers creates a profound sense of loss for an extended family on the brink of welcoming new life.
The shocking incident has sent waves of grief throughout the NHL community. Just as fervently as fans cheered for Johnny's dazzling moves on the ice, they now offer their condolences, support, and prayers for the grieving family. This shared mourning is symbolized by the presence of Johnny’s teammates and NHL’s upper echelon at the memorial service, evident in the collective support offered to the Gaudreau family.
In these times of sorrow, it’s the small, personal memories that Meredith and others who knew Johnny will hold dear. They paint a picture of a man who, despite the fame and awards, valued his family above all. Johnny Gaudreau's legacy will not only be defined by his impressive statistics and unforgettable plays but also by his role as a loving husband, father, brother, and friend.
As the family moves forward, holding onto the cherished memories and waiting for the newest member to arrive, the extended NHL community stands by them. The deeper impact of Johnny Gaudreau's life was more than just his on-ice brilliance; it was his heart, dedication, and the relationships he fostered.