Community Mourns the Loss of NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau
On a somber Monday evening, friends, family, and fans gathered to honor the memory of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, whose life was tragically cut short in a cycling accident last month. The 31-year-old Columbus Blue Jackets forward, affectionately known to fans as "Johnny Hockey," was cycling with his brother Matthew Gaudreau in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when a drunk driver struck and killed both brothers.
The loss resonated deeply within the hockey community, drawing the presence of Gaudreau's teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman among those in attendance. Gaudreau's widow, Meredith, took to the podium to offer a touching eulogy, revealing that she is pregnant with their third child. "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 shared, her voice filled with both sorrow and warmth.
Meredith painted a vivid picture of her husband's reaction to the unexpected news. "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 family already includes two young children: Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. Meredith reminisced about their time together as a family of four, stating, "John and I had the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the best six months of my life."
The Gaudreau brothers, who had been in New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister's wedding, were struck down in a moment of senseless tragedy. Police reports confirmed that the driver responsible was intoxicated and has since been charged with two counts of death by auto.
In attendance was also Matthew Gaudreau's wife, Madeline, who is expecting their first child. The shared grief of the two families underscores the immeasurable loss they have suffered. Meredith's eulogy also offered a poignant glimpse into the cherished moments she and Johnny enjoyed together. "There's specifically one week that I will cherish forever -- it will be my favorite week of my life out of those six months," she said.
Johnny Gaudreau's death is a profound loss for the hockey world. Known for his dazzling skills on the ice and his genuine kindness off it, Gaudreau was admired by fans and colleagues alike. His contributions to the sport, along with the indelible mark he left on those who knew him, will not be forgotten.
As the community continues to cope with this unimaginable heartbreak, the gathering served as both a tribute and a testament to Gaudreau's enduring legacy. With the announcement of Meredith Gaudreau's pregnancy, there is a glimmer of hope and continuity amid the sorrow, a reminder of the life and love Johnny Gaudreau shared with those closest to him.
The memories shared and the overwhelming support at the memorial stand as a tribute to a life well-lived, even if tragically brief. The hockey world will forever remember Johnny Gaudreau – a star on the ice, a loving father and husband, and a cherished friend.