Friends, family, and the hockey community gathered on Monday to mourn the loss of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, whose life was cut tragically short in a cycling accident last month. The heartbreaking event took place in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, where Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were struck and killed by a drunk driver. Both brothers had been in New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister's wedding, adding an extra layer of sorrow to the family's grief.
Among those who came to pay their respects were Gaudreau’s Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, emphasizing the impact Johnny had both on and off the ice. However, the person who captivated hearts during the service was his wife, Meredith Gaudreau. In her poignant eulogy, Meredith revealed a bittersweet surprise that she is in her ninth week of pregnancy with the couple’s 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," Meredith shared, her voice trembling yet strong. The revelation that Meredith is expecting came as an unexpected piece of joyous news amid the profound sadness.
A Growing Family Amid Sadness
The Gaudreau family currently includes two young children, Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024. Johnny Gaudreau's excitement for their expanding family was palpable, even in the face of tragedy. Meredith recounted how she was the most anxious when revealing the news to her late husband.
"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?'" Meredith's words painted a vivid picture of Johnny’s infectious excitement and humor, qualities that will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
Legacy of Love and Happiness
In her eulogy, Meredith also reflected on the precious time they had spent as a family. "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 voice filled with both pride and sorrow. She highlighted a particular week that stood out to her as especially memorable. "There's specifically one week that I will cherish forever -- it will be my favorite week of my life out of those six months."
Both Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau left behind not just teammates and fans, but families replete with love and memories. Matthew's wife, Madeline Gaudreau, is also expecting their first child, adding another layer of poignancy to the already heart-wrenching situation.
A Community Shattered
The driver responsible for the fatal accident was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, a meager consolation for the irreplaceable loss suffered by the Gaudreau family and the broader NHL community. The tragic incident has cast a long shadow over what was supposed to be a joyful family gathering.
As the hockey world mourns, it is the personal stories and remembrances that keep Johnny Gaudreau's spirit alive. His skill on the ice, his kindness off it, and his role as a loving husband and father will endure in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to know him. Meredith Gaudreau's heartfelt eulogy served not only as a tribute to her husband’s life but as a testimony to the strength and resilience she now must embody for their children and the one on the way.
Johnny Gaudreau was many things—a talented athlete, a loving father, and a devoted husband. His sudden departure leaves behind a legacy marked by both his professional achievements and his personal joys. The world of hockey has lost a star, but his light continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those who loved him.