Friends, family, and hockey fans gathered on Monday to pay their final respects to NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, whose life was tragically cut short in a cycling accident last month. The ceremony, held in an atmosphere of deep sorrow and remembrance, was attended by Gaudreau's Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, showcasing the far-reaching impact of his loss.
A Family Hit by Tragedy
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew Gaudreau were enjoying a peaceful bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when their lives were abruptly ended by a drunk driver. Both brothers were struck and killed, a heartbreaking incident that has left two families and the hockey community reeling. According to police reports, the driver involved in the accident has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
Johnny Gaudreau's wife, Meredith, delivered a heart-wrenching eulogy, revealing a piece of joyful news amidst the sorrow. "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, her voice cracking with emotion. This revelation added yet another layer to the grief, underscoring the future that Johnny won't be a part of.
A Growing Family Left Behind
Meredith is currently nine weeks pregnant with their third child, an unexpected blessing that Johnny had warmly embraced. "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 recalled, providing a poignant glimpse into their loving relationship.
The Gaudreau family already includes two young children. Their daughter, Noa Harper Gaudreau, was born on September 30, 2022, and their son, Johnny Edward Gaudreau, arrived on February 22, 2024. The future that Johnny had eagerly anticipated with his growing family is now shrouded in grief and loss.
A Community in Mourning
Matthew Gaudreau's wife, Madeline, is also expecting their first child, adding another layer of heartbreak to the immense loss felt by the Gaudreau family. Both brothers were in New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister's wedding, making their untimely deaths even more tragic.
Meredith Gaudreau reflected on the precious time she had with Johnny, particularly cherishing the last six months they spent 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." Her words carried a weight of cherished memories that now serve as a painful reminder of what was and what could have been.
"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 added, hinting at intimate moments and shared joys that now reside only in memory.
Legacy of a Hockey Star
The loss of Johnny Gaudreau has been felt deeply within the hockey community. Known for his exceptional skills on the ice, Gaudreau was a beloved figure both on and off the rink. His presence will be sorely missed by teammates, fans, and the larger NHL family. The presence of NHL commissioner Gary Bettman at the memorial service underlined the high regard in which Gaudreau was held across the league.
As the community grieves, they also celebrate the legacy of a life cut too short. The memories shared by those who knew and loved Johnny Gaudreau will continue to serve as a testament to the impact he made during his time both as a hockey player and as a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend.
In these moments of profound loss, the hockey world rallies together, offering support and compassion to the Gaudreau family. Meredith's revelation of her pregnancy serves as a glimmer of hope amid the darkness, a poignant reminder of life's continuity even in the face of overwhelming tragedy.
The collective heart of the hockey community aches for the Gaudreau family, as they navigate the unthinkable loss of two remarkable individuals. The memories of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau will endure, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing them.