Friends and family of Johnny Gaudreau gathered on Monday to honor the life and legacy of the NHL star who tragically lost his life last month in a cycling accident. Gaudreau, a revered player for the Columbus Blue Jackets, was celebrated not just for his prowess on the ice but for the joy and warmth he brought to those around him.
Among those paying their respects were his teammates from the Blue Jackets and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, who joined the Gaudreau family in their time of grief. The emotional ceremony took an unexpected and poignant turn when Johnny’s wife, Meredith Gaudreau, revealed during her eulogy that she is pregnant with their third child.
Heartbreaking Loss and a New Life
Meredith's announcement struck a chord with all in attendance. “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 laden with a mix of sorrow and hope. Her revelation underlined the cruel juxtaposition of life and death, as the couple’s growing family already includes two young children.
Their daughter, Noa Harper Gaudreau, was born on September 30, 2022, and their second child, Johnny Edward Gaudreau, arrived on February 22, 2024. In her heartfelt eulogy, Meredith added, “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 spoke of the joy Johnny brought to their lives, mentioning a particularly cherished week within those six months that she would always look back on fondly.
A Tragic Accident
The tragedy unfolded in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, where Johnny and his brother Matthew were enjoying a bicycle ride. Both brothers were struck and killed by a drunk driver. Authorities confirmed the driver had been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
Matthew Gaudreau leaves behind his wife, Madeline, who is expecting their first child. The Gaudreau brothers had traveled to New Jersey to serve as groomsmen for their sister’s wedding, a family occasion that turned into an unimaginable sorrow.
Community and Team Support
The presence of Johnny’s Columbus Blue Jackets teammates and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman was a testament to the impact he had within the hockey community. Their attendance underscored the profound sense of loss felt across the league. Gaudreau’s death has sent ripples through not just the Columbus community but the entire hockey world, where he was known for his skill, sportsmanship, and infectious enthusiasm.
Meredith’s reflections during the service captured the essence of Johnny’s character. “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 reminisced, eliciting soft laughter and tears from the audience.
Remembering a Star
Johnny Gaudreau, just 31 years old, left an indelible mark on all who knew him. The outpouring of love and shared memories during the memorial service painted the portrait of a man who valued his family above all and whose passion for hockey was matched by his kindness off the rink.
As Meredith and the rest of the family navigate their grief, they are surrounded by a community that continues to offer support and share in their sorrow. The legacy of Johnny Gaudreau will persist not only through his on-ice achievements but through the family and friends who carry his memory forward.
The future holds a mix of challenges and joys for the Gaudreau family. As Meredith navigates the remainder of her pregnancy and prepares to welcome their third child, the memories of Johnny’s unwavering excitement and love will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light. His memory will be cherished, and his influence, both as a family man and a hockey star, will remain undimmed.