A Gathered Goodbye for Johnny Gaudreau
The world of professional hockey was struck by an unimaginable tragedy when NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew Gaudreau, lost their lives in a cycling accident. Friends, family, and teammates gathered on Monday to pay their final respects, mourning the loss of one of hockey’s shining stars and his beloved brother.
Johnny Gaudreau, known for his electrifying on-ice performance, died last month in what has been confirmed as a tragic accident involving a drunk driver in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The Gaudreau brothers were cycling together when they were both struck and killed. The driver responsible for the incident has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
The somber gathering saw attendance from his Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, reflecting the wide impact Johnny had both on and off the ice. Bettman, who has presided over the league during some of its most significant moments, expressed profound sorrow alongside Gaudreau's teammates and loved ones.
Johnny's wife, Meredith Gaudreau, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, revealing a personal yet profoundly shared moment with all in attendance. "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 disclosed through tears.
Meredith’s revelation underscored the depth of the loss, magnifying the sadness as she shared intimate memories of her late husband. "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, adding layers of poignancy to the farewell proceedings.
John and Meredith were savoring the delights of parenthood, relishing moments as a family of four, as Meredith emphasized in her eulogy. "John and I had the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the best six months of my life." Her words painted a picture of a loving father and devoted husband, cherishing every fleeting moment with his family.
Among those mourning were not only his immediate family but also his extended hockey family, who knew Johnny as a fierce competitor and a kind soul. Teammates recounted his dedication, leadership, and the joy he brought to the locker room, emphasizing the irreplaceable void left by his untimely departure.
The incident that claimed the brothers' lives occurred as they were in New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister's wedding, adding another dimension of heartache for the family. Matthew Gaudreau's wife, Madeline Gaudreau, is also expecting their first child, further intertwining the Gaudreau family’s joy and sorrow.
Meredith's eulogy resonated deeply with all present, particularly when she poignantly recalled, "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 offered a glimpse into the treasured memories the family will carry forward, despite the overwhelming grief they now face.
The Gaudreau brothers' legacy transcends their athletic achievements; they will be remembered for their humanity, their love for their families, and the indelible mark they left on those who knew them. As the hockey community and the Gaudreau family navigate this profound loss, Johnny and Matthew's memory will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift the many lives they touched.