Friends, family, and fans of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau gathered on Monday to honor his memory in an emotional ceremony. Gaudreau, a celebrated winger for the Columbus Blue Jackets, tragically lost his life in a cycling accident last month that also claimed the life of his brother, Matthew Gaudreau.
The two brothers were enjoying a bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when they were struck by a drunk driver. Both were pronounced dead on the scene, and the driver responsible has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto. The Gaudreau brothers were in New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister's wedding, adding an extra layer of heartbreak to this tragic loss.
NHL Community Pays Tribute
Among those in attendance at the somber ceremony were Gaudreau's Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. The outpouring of support from the hockey community highlighted the impact Johnny had on and off the ice. Known for his swift skating and scoring prowess, Gaudreau's legacy in the NHL is one of skill, sportsmanship, and camaraderie.
A Family's Heartfelt Eulogy
One of the most poignant moments came from Johnny's wife, Meredith Gaudreau, who delivered a deeply moving eulogy. She revealed a bittersweet piece of news to the gathered mourners: "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 painted a vivid picture of her husband's joy upon learning about the pregnancy. "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 includes two young children, Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. Meredith's announcement adds yet another layer of loss and hope to their story.
Six Months of Joy
Reflecting on their life together, Meredith shared, "John and I had the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the best six months of my life." In her touching tribute, she emphasized the irreplaceable moments they spent together, particularly cherishing a specific week that she described as her favorite.
"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 said, her voice trembling with emotion yet infused with love and gratitude.
A Community in Mourning
Outside the immediate family, the broader community in Oldmans Township and the NHL have been left stunned by the loss of the Gaudreau brothers. Both Johnny and Matthew were not just athletes but also beloved figures in their community who dedicated time and effort to various charitable initiatives.
Matthew Gaudreau's wife, Madeline, is also expecting their first child, which compounds the tragedy but also brings a sense of future amidst the sorrow. The outpouring of grief from friends, teammates, and fans is a testament to the impact the brothers had on everyone they met.
John Gaudreau's death at the age of 31 marks a significant loss for hockey fans and the sports world. A player known for his incredible on-ice vision and dynamic playmaking abilities, Gaudreau was not only a star for the Columbus Blue Jackets but also a beloved figure in every locker room he entered.
Legacy of the Gaudreau Brothers
The Gaudreau brothers leave behind a legacy defined by their love for family, their talent on the ice, and their commitment to others. As the sports world and local communities come to terms with this enormous loss, the memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of players and fans alike.
The emotional farewell on Monday served not just as a tribute to Johnny and Matthew but also as a celebration of their lives, emphasizing the love and joy they brought to so many. It was a day marked by tears, memories, and a collective hope for the future, even in the face of unthinkable tragedy.