Friends and family gathered on Monday to pay their final respects to NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, a moment clouded with profound sadness and loss. Gaudreau, who tragically lost his life in a cycling accident last month, was commemorated by those who knew and loved him, with his Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman among those in attendance. The somber ceremony was a testament to the impact Gaudreau had both on and off the ice.
The accident, which also claimed the life of Johnny's brother, Matthew Gaudreau, occurred while the two were enjoying a bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. According to police reports, both brothers were struck and killed by a drunk driver, who has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto. The brothers had been in New Jersey to serve as groomsmen at their sister's wedding, marking what was supposed to be a joyful family reunion marred by heartbreaking tragedy.
In the midst of her grief, Meredith Gaudreau, Johnny's wife, revealed during her eulogy a poignant and deeply personal announcement. "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." Despite the overwhelming sorrow, Meredith's words brought a flicker of hope and continuity, illustrating the enduring love and life that Johnny leaves behind.
Meredith, who is in her ninth week of pregnancy, provided a glimpse into their last moments as a family. "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?'" The couple's growing family includes two young children, Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. Now, Meredith faces the future with the strength and love that Johnny instilled in their lives.
Reflecting on their life together, Meredith shared moments that will forever be etched 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 recounted, with a poignant mix of joy and sorrow, those precious times. "There's specifically one week that I will cherish forever -- it will be my favorite week of my life out of those six months." Her words painted a vivid picture of a life filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams, now tragically cut short.
The loss extends beyond Johnny and reaches into Matthew Gaudreau's family. Matthew's wife, Madeline Gaudreau, is expecting their first child, adding another layer of sorrow and hope to this tragic narrative. The Gaudreau families, already intertwined through love and brotherhood, now share an even deeper bond of grief and the promise of new life amidst the heartbreak.
As the hockey world mourns the loss of Johnny Gaudreau, the legacy he leaves behind speaks volumes of the man he was. Not just a star on the ice, but a beloved husband, father, and brother, whose light shone brightly in the lives of those who knew him. The tragedy of his passing is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring spirit of those who are left behind.
In the coming days, the hockey community and the Gaudreau family will continue to grapple with their loss. Yet, amidst the pain, the memories and love shared by Johnny and Matthew will serve as a beacon of strength and resilience.