Family and Friends Gather to Mourn NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau
On a somber Monday, friends and family of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau gathered to pay their respects after the 31-year-old tragically lost his life in a cycling accident last month. Gaudreau, who was well-known for his skill on the ice and his affable personality off it, left a profound impact on the lives of many.
Among the attendees at the emotional memorial service were his Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. The presence of these notable figures underscored the significant influence Gaudreau had within the hockey community.
During the eulogy, Meredith Gaudreau, Johnny’s wife, revealed heart-wrenching news that she is pregnant with their third child. She is currently in her ninth week of pregnancy. "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 words resonating deeply with those in attendance.
The couple, who already have two young children—Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024—were looking forward to expanding their family. Meredith recounted the moment she told Johnny 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?'"
Reflecting on their time together, Meredith emotionally conveyed how meaningful the past months had been for their family. "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, her voice filled with a mixture of sorrow and gratitude. "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 tragic accident occurred while Johnny and his brother Matthew Gaudreau were enjoying a bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. In a devastating turn of events, both brothers were struck and killed by a drunk driver, according to police reports. The driver was subsequently arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
Matthew Gaudreau's wife, Madeline Gaudreau, is also facing an uncertain future as she is expecting their first child. The Gaudreau brothers had traveled to New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister's wedding, an occasion meant to be filled with joy and celebration that has now been shadowed by immense grief.
Johnny Gaudreau's untimely death has left a void not only in the lives of his family members but also in the wider hockey community. His career was marked by numerous achievements and a relentless dedication to the sport he loved. The images of thousands of fans paying tribute to Gaudreau, alongside the heartfelt messages from his peers, reflect the indelible mark he left on the hockey world.
As the Gaudreau family and the hockey community come to terms with this irrevocable loss, there lies a collective remembrance of both Johnny and Matthew's legacies. Their commitment to their family, their team, and the sport stands as a testament to their enduring spirit.
The service concluded with a heartfelt farewell and unyielding support for the Gaudreau family as they navigate this heartbreaking chapter. The legacy of Johnny Gaudreau, remembered not only for his prowess on the ice but for his unshakeable love for his family, will forever be cherished.