Friends, family, and the hockey community came together on Monday in a poignant ceremony to honor the life of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau. The Columbus Blue Jackets forward was tragically killed in a cycling accident last month, a loss that has reverberated deeply around the league.
The service saw an outpouring of grief and respect, with Gaudreau’s teammates and NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman present to pay their last respects. Gaudreau, affectionately known as "Johnny Hockey," had earned admiration for his skill on the ice and his character off it.
A Tragic Incident
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew were riding their bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey when they were struck and killed by a drunk driver, according to police reports. The driver 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, a gathering that turned from joyous preparation to heart-wrenching tragedy.
A Growing Family
In an emotional eulogy, Meredith Gaudreau revealed that she is pregnant with their third child, a poignant announcement that underscores the depth of the family's loss. "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.
Despite his untimely demise, Gaudreau leaves behind a growing family, with two young children already part of their lives. Their daughter, Noa Harper Gaudreau, was born on September 30, 2022, and their son, Johnny Edward Gaudreau, was born on February 22, 2024. The couple had cherished these early months as a family of four, a sentiment deeply felt in Meredith’s words: "John and I had the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the best six months of my life."
Brotherly Bond
The tragedy was doubled by the loss of Johnny's brother, Matthew Gaudreau. Matthew’s wife, Madeline Gaudreau, is currently expecting their first child, another layer of heartache amid this devastating event. The brothers' shared enthusiasm for life and family was palpable, adding to the immense sense of loss felt by all who knew them.
Meredith also recounted the moment she shared the surprise news of her pregnancy with Johnny. "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?'"
Community Support
The impact of Johnny Gaudreau's passing extends beyond his immediate family. As a high-profile athlete, his death has left a void in the hockey world, where he was celebrated not just for his athletic prowess but also for his leadership and kindness. Teammates and fans alike have expressed their sorrow, reflecting on Johnny's professionalism and the joy he brought to the sport.
Meredith’s words during the eulogy captured the essence of Johnny’s impact on his family and the legacy he leaves behind. "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, providing a glimpse into the personal moments that now serve as treasured memories for the Gaudreau family.
The convergence of friends, family, and the hockey community at Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau’s memorial service is a testament to the profound influence they had on the lives they touched. As they are remembered, the thoughts and prayers of many go out to their loved ones, in the hope that their memories will bring some measure of comfort during this difficult time.