Friends and family gathered on Monday to pay their final respects to esteemed NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically lost his life in a cycling accident last month. The somber event saw the presence of Gaudreau's Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, along with many who were touched by his illustrious career and amiable character.
Gaudreau, affectionately known as "Johnny Hockey," met his untimely end during a bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The ride turned tragic when both Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were struck and killed by a drunk driver. According to police reports, the driver has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
The Gaudreau family has been left to grapple with an unimaginable loss. Johnny’s wife, Meredith Gaudreau, paid tribute to her husband during a heartfelt eulogy, revealing in a poignant moment that she is pregnant with their third child, a discovery she made just nine weeks prior. "We're actually a family of five," said Meredith. "I'm in my ninth week of pregnancy with our third baby. A total surprise, but again, John was beaming and so excited."
Meredith Gaudreau went on to share touching memories of their relationship and the bond they shared with their children. "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. Meredith fondly recounted the joy John felt in these recent 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 reflected, adding, "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 tragedy doesn’t stop there for the Gaudreau family. Matthew Gaudreau’s wife, Madeline, is expecting their first child. The brothers were in New Jersey to attend their sister's wedding, where they were to serve as groomsmen, adding an extra layer of heartbreak to the occasion.
Johnny Gaudreau's death is not only a personal loss but a profound one for the hockey community. Known for his skill and sportsmanship on the ice, Gaudreau's impact transcended the rink. He left an indelible mark on the sport, his teammates, and fans across the world. The NHL, his team, and his beloved fans mourn the loss of a player whose legacy will continue to influence the game for years to come.
As the Gaudreau family begins to navigate life without Johnny and Matthew, the support from the hockey community and beyond offers some solace. The outpouring of love and respect for Johnny Gaudreau underscores the deep connections he built throughout his life and career.
In reflecting on Johnny’s legacy, it is evident that he was more than just a talented athlete. He was a dedicated family man, a cherished teammate, and an individual who brought joy and warmth to those around him. His memory will live on not only in the hearts of his family and close friends but in the annals of NHL history as a player who exemplified passion, dedication, and excellence.