Friends, family, and fans gathered on a solemn Monday to mourn the loss of NHL forward Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically passed away in a cycling accident last month. Gaudreau's Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman were among those present to pay their respects.
The grief was palpable as Meredith Gaudreau, Johnny’s widow, delivered an emotional eulogy filled with poignant revelations. Amidst the sorrow, she disclosed that their family was expecting a new addition. "We're actually a family of five. I'm in my ninth week of pregnancy with our third baby," she revealed. "A total surprise, but again, John was beaming and so excited."
Meredith shared touching anecdotes that highlighted Johnny’s excitement about parenthood. "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 already includes two young children: Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. Meredith fondly reminisced about the beautiful moments they shared 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," she said. "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 incident that took Gaudreau's life also claimed that of his brother, Matthew Gaudreau. The two were cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when they were struck by a drunk driver. Both brothers died at the scene. The police swiftly took action, arresting and charging the driver with two counts of death by auto.
The Gaudreau brothers were in New Jersey for a joyous family occasion, set to serve as groomsmen at their sister's wedding. The celebration turned to mourning as the family grapples with the sudden loss of both Johnny and Matthew.
Adding to the complex emotions of the moment is the fact that Matthew's wife, Madeline Gaudreau, is also expecting their first child. The overlapping grief and hope serve as a testament to the intertwined lives and futures of the Gaudreau family.
Johnny Gaudreau was a beloved figure both on and off the ice. Known for his electrifying play and humble demeanor, he captivated fans and earned the respect of teammates and opponents alike. His passing leaves a void in the NHL community, one that will be deeply felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
As the Gaudreau family navigates this emotionally tumultuous period, they find themselves buoyed by the outpouring of support from friends, fans, and the broader hockey community. Meredith, in particular, has shown incredible strength in the face of overwhelming loss, ensuring that Johnny’s legacy will live on through their children and the countless lives he touched.
In a world often marked by fleeting moments of happiness and unforeseen tragedy, the Gaudreau family's story resonates deeply. It serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring strength of familial bonds. As Meredith poignantly summed up, "These will forever be the best six months of my life," a sentiment that underscores the lasting impact Johnny Gaudreau had on those who knew and loved him.