Friends, family, and the extended hockey community gathered on Monday to honor the memory of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically lost his life in a cycling accident last month. The mournful event saw an outpouring of grief and respect as his Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman joined Gaudreau's loved ones in remembrance.
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, was cycling with his brother Matthew Gaudreau in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when a drunk driver tragically struck and killed both brothers. The driver was later charged with two counts of death by auto. The loss is a devastating blow to the Gaudreau family, who had gathered in New Jersey for a joyous occasion, as the brothers were set to serve as groomsmen in their sister's wedding.
Amidst the sorrow, Meredith Gaudreau revealed a bittersweet piece of news during her heartfelt eulogy. "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. This unexpected joy was another testament to the happiness that Johnny brought to his family, even in their toughest times.
Meredith's announcement added an emotional layer to the devastating loss, recalling her husband's overwhelming joy upon hearing the news. "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?'"
Johnny Gaudreau leaves behind not only his pregnant wife but also their two young children, Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. "John and I had the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the best six months of my life," Meredith reflected in her tribute, illustrating the profound impact those few months had on her and her family.
Meredith also recounted a particularly cherished memory from those last six months. "There's specifically one week that I will cherish forever -- it will be my favorite week of my life out of those six months." The poignant memories she shared captured the essence of Johnny's character, a man who, despite his professional commitments, always made time for his family.
The tragic loss of the Gaudreau brothers casts a long shadow over the ice hockey community. Those who gathered in their honor spoke not only of their skill on the rink but also of their kindness, humility, and deep familial bonds. The brothers' shared joy for cycling, which led to their untimely demise, was a reflection of their close-knit relationship.
Adding further to the sorrowful narrative is the anticipation of new life amidst the grief. Matthew Gaudreau's wife, Madeline, is also expecting their first child. The parallel pregnancies of Meredith and Madeline highlight the cruel irony of life’s unexpected turns, juxtaposing impending joy with overwhelming grief.
As the Gaudreau family navigates this immeasurable loss, the hockey community stands in solidarity. Their gathering to celebrate Johnny and Matthew's lives was a testament to the love and respect the brothers garnered both on and off the ice. It is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the enduring strength of family and friendship.
Their legacy, marked by their contributions to the sport and the lives they touched, will be remembered. Their tragic end underscores the importance of addressing the dangers posed by impaired driving, a preventable cause of so many unnecessary deaths.
As the world of hockey mourns, the story of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau serves as a heartfelt reminder of the profound impact they had on their families, teammates, and fans. They will be remembered not only for their prowess on the ice but for the love and joy they brought into the lives of those who knew them.