A Community Mourns the Loss of NHL Star Johnny Gaudreau
On a somber Monday afternoon, friends, family, and fans came together to pay their final respects to Johnny Gaudreau, the beloved NHL star whose life was abruptly cut short in a tragic cycling accident last month. The gathering, filled with both grief and love, reflected the deep impact Gaudreau had on those who knew him and those who admired his skills on the ice.
Gaudreau, who played for the Columbus Blue Jackets, died alongside his brother Matthew after both were struck by a drunk driver during a bicycle ride in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The brothers had returned to their home state to serve as groomsmen for their sister’s wedding, turning what should have been a joyous family occasion into a heartbreaking loss. The driver involved was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
The memorial saw an outpouring of support from the hockey community. Gaudreau's Columbus Blue Jackets teammates attended the service, as did NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, underscoring the respect and admiration Gaudreau commanded in the league. Bettman expressed his condolences to the family, noting the star player's influence in and beyond the hockey world.
A Family's Heartfelt Farewell
Among the touching moments during the service was the eulogy delivered by Gaudreau’s wife, Meredith. Her words painted a loving picture of Gaudreau not just as an NHL star, but as a devoted husband and father.
"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 revealed during her eulogy, adding another layer to the tragedy. Her announcement, coupled with the tender recollections of Gaudreau's reaction, provided a poignant look at the life they were building together.
Meredith recounted, "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?'" Despite the inherent challenges, the couple’s joy in expanding their family was a testament to Gaudreau's loving nature.
The Gaudreaus’ two young children, Noa Harper, born on September 30, 2022, and Johnny Edward, born on February 22, 2024, will grow up with cherished memories of their father, painted vividly by Meredith’s heartfelt words. "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 shared, underlining the joy and love that defined their family life.
Another Loss in the Gaudreau Family
The Gaudreau family's sorrow was compounded by the loss of Johnny's brother Matthew, who was struck down in the same tragic incident. Matthew's wife, Madeline, is currently expecting their first child, adding to the collective grief felt by the family and friends gathered.
The brothers' sudden passing is a stark reminder of the perils of drunk driving, transforming a routine activity into a moment of unimaginable loss. The New Jersey community, along with the larger NHL family, has rallied around the Gaudreau family, offering support during this incomprehensible time.
A Ray of Hope Amidst the Darkness
Meredith eloquently captured the essence of their family life and the bond she shared with Johnny, stating, "There's specifically one week that I will cherish forever -- it will be my favorite week of my life out of those six months." Her eulogy not only honored Johnny’s memory but also celebrated the profound love and happiness they shared as a family.
As the Gaudreau family navigates through their grief, the support from their loved ones and the broader hockey community serves as a beacon of solace. Johnny Gaudreau’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through his contributions to the game, his family, and the countless lives he touched.
In these challenging times, Meredith’s strength and poignant words resonate with everyone who knew and admired Johnny Gaudreau. As the family braces for the arrival of their third child, Johnny’s memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who loved him.