In a somber gathering filled with love, admiration, and profound loss, friends and family came together on Monday to bid farewell to NHL star Johnny Gaudreau. Tragically, Gaudreau and his brother Matthew lost their lives in a devastating cycling accident last month, a heart-wrenching event that rocked the sports world and deeply impacted their loved ones.
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew were enjoying a bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when their lives were abruptly cut short. According to police reports, the brothers were struck and killed by a drunk driver, an event that led to the driver's arrest and subsequent charges of two counts of death by auto.
The impact of this tragedy on the Gaudreau family is immeasurable. Johnny's wife, Meredith Gaudreau, delivered a poignant eulogy, revealing the depth of their shared love and the irreplaceable void left by his passing. Amidst the grief, Meredith shared a bittersweet announcement: she is pregnant with their third child, a revelation that adds complexity to an already heart-wrenching moment.
"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 during her eulogy. Her words offered a glimpse into the personal joy that Johnny held for their growing family, even as they faced unexpected developments.
The couple's journey together was marked by cherished moments and deep connection. Meredith recounted, "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?'"
Johnny and Meredith's family already includes two young children: Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. Meredith’s heartfelt words painted a picture of a family brimming with love and shared happiness, with Johnny’s presence leaving an indelible mark on their hearts.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and Johnny's teammates from the Columbus Blue Jackets were among those who attended the memorial service, paying tribute to a player known for his talent on the ice and his warmth off it. As those closest to Johnny gathered to remember him, the strength and unity of the hockey community were evident.
The tragedy extended beyond Johnny to his brother Matthew, whose own growing family is faced with the loss of a husband and soon-to-be father. Matthew Gaudreau's wife, Madeline, is expecting their first child, compounding the heartbreak and underscoring the magnitude of this familial loss.
Johnny and Matthew were not just beloved brothers; they were also pillars of support for their sister during an equally significant moment: their sister's wedding. The brothers had traveled to New Jersey to serve as groomsmen, roles they would never fulfill due to the accident.
Meredith Gaudreau, in her heartfelt tribute, highlighted the precious moments she shared with Johnny, particularly over the past six months. "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. Her words were a testament to the enduring joy and unwavering love that defined their time together.
Reflecting further, Meredith added, "There's specifically one week that I will cherish forever -- it will be my favorite week of my life out of those six months." Such memories provide solace amidst the overwhelming grief, offering a reminder of the love that will continue to carry the Gaudreau family forward.
The passing of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau is a stark and painful reminder of life's fragility and the devastating consequences of reckless actions. As the sports world mourns the loss of a talented star and his beloved brother, the enduring legacy of their lives will be cherished by those who knew and loved them. The Gaudreau family, now navigating a future without their beloved John and Matthew, finds comfort in tributes and memories that honor their spirit, resilience, and the love that will forever surround them.