Friends, family, and the hockey community came together on Monday to honor the life and legacy of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau. The solemn gathering was marked by deep sorrow and heartfelt tributes, as those who knew him best paid their respects to the talented athlete who tragically passed away in a cycling accident last month.
Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew were on a bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey when their lives were cut short in a devastating incident. Both brothers were struck and killed by a drunk driver, a tragedy that has left their family and fans in mourning. The driver responsible has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
A Community in Mourning
Among the mourners were Johnny Gaudreau’s Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, underscoring the profound impact he had on the league and his teammates. The gathering was not only a moment to reminisce about Johnny’s contributions on the ice but also to celebrate his life off it.
A poignant moment came during the eulogy delivered by Johnny’s wife, Meredith Gaudreau. In a touching revelation, she shared that she is pregnant with their third child.
"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 disclosed, her voice filled with both pain and a glimmer of the joy they shared in the anticipation of their growing family.
Meredith further reflected on the initial reaction of Johnny upon learning 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?'"
Remembering the Best Moments
Their family, already blessed with two young children—Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024—had enjoyed six months together as a family of four. Meredith expressed that these months will always hold a special place in her heart.
"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 shared, painting a picture of a closely-knit family brimming with love and joy.
She also spoke about a specific week during these six months that stands out as her favorite. "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, though the details of that cherished week remain a private memory.
Family Bonds and Future Hopes
The loss of the Gaudreau brothers is acutely felt not just by their immediate family but also by their extended family and friends. Matthew Gaudreau’s wife, Madeline, is expecting their first child, adding another layer of poignancy to the family's grieving process. The brothers were in New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister’s wedding, a family event turned into a moment of tremendous loss.
In the midst of mourning and heartache, the strength and resilience of the Gaudreau family shine through. Meredith’s announcements and reflections during the eulogy underscored the enduring love and bond that Johnny shared with his family.
The outpouring of support from the hockey community and beyond has been overwhelming. As the Gaudreau family navigates this challenging period, they do so with the knowledge that Johnny and Matthew touched countless lives through their kindness, talent, and dedication.
Johnny Gaudreau's legacy on the ice remains indelible. He was a force to be reckoned with, celebrated for his agility, skill, and sportsmanship. Off the ice, he was a loving father, husband, and brother—a family man who lived life with passion and joy.
The memories shared by Meredith and the presence of Johnny's teammates and friends at the service serve as a testament to the impact he had on everyone lucky enough to know him. In the hearts of his family and the annals of hockey history, Johnny Gaudreau will forever be remembered as both a star and a beloved figure.