Friends, family, and the entire hockey community found themselves united in grief and remembrance on Monday as they paid their final respects to NHL star Johnny Gaudreau. The tragic cycling accident last month claimed the lives of both Johnny, 31, and his brother Matthew Gaudreau, casting a pall over the sports world and their hometown in Oldmans Township, New Jersey.
The service was a somber yet heartfelt event, drawing a who's who from the hockey world, including the Columbus Blue Jackets — Gaudreau's teammates — and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. The collective sorrow was palpable, yet it also served as a poignant reminder of the impact Gaudreau had both on and off the ice.
A Shocking Loss
According to police reports, both Johnny and Matthew were struck and killed by a drunk driver while enjoying a bicycle ride. The driver has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto. The brothers were in New Jersey to participate as groomsmen at their sister’s wedding, turning a period of anticipated joy into one of unimaginable sorrow.
The emotional weight on the Gaudreau family was compounded during the eulogy given by Johnny's wife, Meredith Gaudreau. In a heart-wrenching revelation, Meredith shared that she is pregnant with their third child, now at nine weeks.
"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 told those gathered, encapsulating the mixture of joy and heartbreak.
Memories and Legacy
Johnny Gaudreau’s short but impactful life was filled with accomplishments and love. Known for his electrifying presence on the ice, he was beloved by fans and peers alike for his skill, dedication, and sportsmanship. Off the ice, Johnny was a devoted husband to Meredith and a doting father to their two children, Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024.
Meredith reflected on their life together, poignantly sharing, "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 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."
Her words painted a vivid picture of a life filled with everyday joys and deep emotional connections, amplifying the sense of loss felt by everyone in attendance. Despite the sadness, Meredith's eulogy also served as a testament to the love and resilience that will continue to honor Johnny's memory.
The Road Ahead
In addition to his immediate family, Johnny's tragic passing leaves a significant void in the hearts of many, including his brother Matthew's wife, Madeline Gaudreau, who is expecting their first child. The Gaudreau family's courage and strength during this period of unimaginable loss have been a source of inspiration to many.
As the hockey community and the world at large continue to mourn, there will undoubtedly be numerous tributes and moments of remembrance for Johnny Gaudreau. His impact on the sport and those who knew him will endure, serving as a lasting legacy of his character and contributions. The forthcoming birth of his third child will be a bittersweet continuation of a life filled with promise that was tragically cut short.
The Gaudreau brothers were more than just athletes; they were individuals whose lives and futures were tied to deeply cherished family and community bonds. Their untimely deaths underscore the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
While the world grapples with this tragic loss, those who knew Johnny best will continue to honor him by embodying the same passion, kindness, and perseverance he demonstrated both on and off the ice. In the echo of Meredith's words, the best months and weeks of their lives together will forever serve as a cherished memory, a guiding light in the darkest of times.