Friends, family, and the entire hockey community came together on Monday to remember and pay their respects to beloved NHL star Johnny Gaudreau. The tragic loss of Gaudreau, who passed away in a cycling accident last month, has left an indelible mark on those who knew him and the sport he loved.
Gaudreau, fondly known as "Johnny Hockey," was enjoying a bicycle ride with his brother Matthew Gaudreau in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when the unthinkable occurred. Both brothers were struck and killed by a drunk driver. The driver has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, according to police reports.
The gathering to honor Johnny Gaudreau's life was a testament to the impact he had both on and off the ice. Among those in attendance were his Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. The sense of loss was palpable, but there were moments of celebration and remembrance of Gaudreau's distinguished career and the joy he brought to those around him.
A Family's Heartbreaking Revelation
During the solemn ceremony, Meredith Gaudreau took a moment to share a poignant and unexpected announcement. "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 revealed in her eulogy. The Gaudreau family, already blessed with two young children, Noa Harper Gaudreau, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward Gaudreau, born on February 22, 2024, was anticipating welcoming a new addition to their growing family.
Meredith continued to reflect on her husband's reaction to the news of her pregnancy. "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?'" These words encapsulate the joy and love that Johnny Gaudreau found in his family, despite the surprise and the challenges that lay ahead.
A Week Cherished Forever
Meredith Gaudreau also shared the cherished moments she held dear from the past 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 said. Her recollection of these precious months offers a glimpse into the happiness and fulfillment that the Gaudreau family found amidst their daily lives.
Among those treasured times, one week stood out for Meredith, as she noted, "There's specifically one week that I will cherish forever -- it will be my favorite week of my life out of those six months." Although she did not specify the details of that week, her words conveyed the deep emotional connection and the irreplaceable memories that they created as a family.
A Community in Mourning
The loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau has sent ripples of grief through the community. Matthew's wife, Madeline Gaudreau, is also expecting their first child, adding another layer of tragedy to the Gaudreau family's sorrow. Both brothers were in New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister's wedding, a joyous occasion that now holds heartbreaking significance.
As the hockey world grapples with the sudden loss of one of its stars, the collective mourning underscores the profound impact Johnny Gaudreau had on his teammates, fans, and loved ones. His career in the NHL was marked by his incredible skill, passion, and dedication to the game. Off the ice, he was known for his kindness, humility, and deep commitment to his family.
While the details surrounding the accident and the subsequent legal proceedings unfold, the legacy of Johnny Gaudreau will endure. His contributions to hockey and the joy he brought to those who knew him will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
As the Gaudreau family navigates this unfathomable loss, the support and love from the hockey community will undoubtedly serve as a source of strength. Johnny Gaudreau's memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched, inspiring future generations both on and off the ice.