NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau Remembered by Loved Ones
Friends, family, and colleagues gathered on Monday in a poignant tribute to NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically passed away in a cycling accident last month. The ceremony, where emotions ran deep, was attended by his Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, all there to pay their respects to the admired athlete.
Gaudreau, at the age of 31, lost his life alongside his brother, Matthew Gaudreau, in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The two brothers were struck and killed by a drunk driver while enjoying a bicycle ride. The driver has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
The Gaudreau brothers had traveled to New Jersey not only to spend time with family but also to serve as groomsmen for their sister's wedding, adding another layer of heartbreak to the tragedy. The community has been left stunned by the sudden loss of two beloved figures.
A Family's Grief and Hope
Meredith Gaudreau, Johnny's widow, delivered a deeply moving eulogy, revealing that their family would soon be growing. "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," Meredith shared, her voice filled with a mix of sorrow and hope.
Reflecting on the unexpected news of her pregnancy, Meredith recalled Johnny's joyous reaction. "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?'" she said.
The couple already has two children, Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. Meredith spoke of the precious moments they shared as a family of four, cherishing those months as the best of her life. "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 remarked with a blend of fondness and heartache.
A Legacy of Love and Dedication
Meredith's eulogy painted a vivid picture of Johnny as a devoted husband and father. "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 stated, highlighting the depth of their familial bond.
The ceremony was not just a moment to mourn but also a celebration of Johnny Gaudreau's impactful life, both on and off the ice. His dedication to the sport of hockey and his love for his family were evident to all who knew him. Teammates and friends recounted stories of his tenacity, skill, and the warmth he brought to the locker room and beyond.
As the community continues to grapple with the loss, the legacy of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau lives on through their families. Matthew's wife, Madeline Gaudreau, is expecting their first child, a reminder that even in the midst of sorrow, life continues and new beginnings emerge.
An Unforgettable Farewell
In the presence of those who loved him, Johnny Gaudreau was laid to rest with the recognition he deserved. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drunk driving and the irreplaceable loss it can cause. The Gaudreau family, while engulfed in grief, has shown remarkable resilience and unity during this unimaginably difficult time.
Johnny Gaudreau’s legacy as a fantastic player and an even better human being will endure in the NHL and beyond. His contributions to the sport and his unwavering love for his family will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.