Friends and family gathered on Monday to pay their respects to NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically lost his life in a cycling accident last month. Among those in attendance were his Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, underscoring the far-reaching impact of his untimely death.
A Heartfelt Eulogy
In a poignant moment during the ceremony, Gaudreau's wife, Meredith Gaudreau, delivered a deeply moving eulogy. She made an emotional revelation that she is pregnant with their third child.
"We're actually a family of five," Meredith shared with those gathered. "I'm in my ninth week of pregnancy with our third baby. A total surprise, but again, John was beaming and so excited."
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. Meredith reflected on John’s excitement about the surprise pregnancy, despite the abruptness of the 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?'" she recalled, her voice trembling with emotion.
A Tragic Accident
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew Gaudreau were enjoying a bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when their lives were cruelly cut short. Both brothers were struck and killed by a drunk driver, according to police reports. The driver involved in the incident was subsequently arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
Adding to the heartbreak, it was revealed that Matthew Gaudreau's wife, Madeline Gaudreau, is also expecting their first child. The couple was looking forward to welcoming their new addition to the family before the tragedy struck.
Family Bonds and Future Hopes
The Gaudreau brothers were in New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister's wedding, highlighting their close-knit family bonds. The loss has resonated deeply not only within the hockey community but also among friends, family, and fans who had admired Johnny Gaudreau both on and off the ice.
Cherishing Memories
In her heartfelt address, Meredith Gaudreau reminisced about the time she and Johnny spent as a family of four. "John and I had the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the best six months of my life," Meredith said, fighting back tears.
She then shared a particularly cherished memory. "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 added, leaving the audience with a glimpse into the intimate moments that defined their life together.
The service was a solemn yet celebratory acknowledgment of Johnny Gaudreau’s life, highlighting the lives he touched and the legacy he leaves behind. It became evident that his influence extended well beyond the rink, penetrating the hearts of those who knew him personally and those who admired him as a sportsman.
The tragic loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau serves as a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing our loved ones. As the Gaudreau family navigates these exceedingly difficult times, they do so with the support and solidarity of a community that deeply mourns their loss.
Johnny Gaudreau’s legacy will undoubtedly endure, not only in the hockey community but also in the hearts of his family and friends. The impending arrival of his third child signifies that his spirit will continue to live on, providing a glimmer of hope amid the overwhelming sorrow.