At the memorial service for late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, widow Meredith Gaudreau was able, in a most emotional moment, to divulge that she is nine weeks pregnant with their third child on September 9, 2024. Audience members were left in shock when the news came together in honor of the late Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, who had passed away due to a bike accident that took place in New Jersey. The news was a little bittersweet because on one hand, it brought some hope during such tough times for the Gaudreau family.
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau Die from a Tragic Accident
The Accident and Aftermath
The brothers, Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and younger brother Matthew, 29, were fatally struck by an alleged drunk driver on August 29, 2024. The brothers were riding their bikes down a road in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, when the accident occurred. The suspected drunk driver, Sean M. Higgins, was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto after he attempted to pass another car and fatally hit the brothers. The Gaudreau family and the hockey fraternity were left reeling in sudden loss.
A Wedding That Never Happened
The two brothers, Johnny and Matthew, were in town for the wedding of Katie the following day as groomsmen. The tragedy had forced the family to delay their wedding, thereby adding heartbreak over boys dying untimely.
Meredith’s Tearful Announcement: ‘A New Chapter Has Begun’
Love For Family
Speaking at the memorial service, Meredith spoke to some of her best memories of Johnny and their time together as a family of four. “John and I had the best six months as a family of four,” she said of the two young children, Noa, who will turn two in October, and Johnny Jr., only seven months old. Then, of course, there was that one particular special week which Meredith would always hold dear, indeed, her favorite memory with her husband.
A Third Child on the Way
Meredith shared next that their family was going to get even bigger. “We’re actually a family of five. I’m in my ninth week of pregnancy with our third baby,” she said. When it came to this pregnancy, though it was a shock to both Meredith and Johnny, Meredith recalled how her late husband had been over the moon. “His reaction was just immediately kissing me and hugging me,” she said of him being “beaming.”.
Reflecting On Their Growing Family
Meredith shared how fast their family had grown in such a short time. “Noa, our oldest, isn’t even 2 years old yet. Just shy of three years of marriage and we’ve created a family of five. It doesn’t even sound possible, yet I look at it as the ultimate blessing,” she shared. She said it has been a real blessing to have the opportunity to carry Johnny’s third child amidst such a heartbreaking situation.
Widow of Matthew Also Expectant
Madeline’s Pregnancy and Support for Her Family
In addition to Meredith’s pregnancy, Matthew Gaudreau’s widow, Madeline, is pregnant. Madeline is expecting the couple’s first child, a son they will name Tripp. Friends and supporters, as well as the Gaudreau family, have come out in support of Madeline and Tripp since the incident occurred. A GoFundMe to support Madeline and her unborn child was started. As of September 9, it had raised nearly $650,000.
A Call for Action
A tearful Madeline implored others at the memorial service to rethink their decisions when it comes to drinking and driving. “I beg of everybody in here, do not drink and drive,” Madeline said. “Find a ride. Please don’t put another family through this torture.” Her call for awareness and responsibility in memory of Johnny and Matthew was deeply moving to the attendees and the wider community, forcing many to be reminded of how such tragedies could be avoided.
Remembering Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau
Family and Friends Unite in Remembrance
The memorial service for Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau was held at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Media, Pennsylvania. Members of the family were in attendance, along with friends, and many of Johnny’s current and former NHL teammates. The NHL was represented by Commissioner Gary Bettman as well, which really puts into perspective how much of an impact this young athlete had upon the world of hockey.
Meredith’s Tribute to Husband and His Brother
In the emotional tribute to her late husband and brother-in-law, Meredith shared the bond that was between the two brothers. “It was always John and Matty,” she said, reflecting on just how inseparable the two had been. Meredith also marked an important milestone in her life: her and Johnny’s third wedding anniversary had been just a few days before the accident. I know John would not have been able to make a day without his brother,” Meredith added, underscoring how attached Johnny was with his brother Matthew.
Teammates and Fans Mourn the Loss
His ex-teammates and fans of the Columbus Blue Jackets have voiced their sorrow and respect for the beloved NHL star. During one of the vigils held for him, many teammates took to words about how he would be missed, both on and off the ice, by Johnny. Memories of his contributions to the sport, leadership, and being a loving husband and father have been remembered and celebrated.
In Memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau Seeking Justice and Awareness
The Drunk Driving Incident
Tragedy revisited the memory of two brothers, Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, who died in a car accident involving a drunk driver. The driver, Sean M. Higgins, was arrested at the scene for various charges related to drunk driving. As court proceedings continued, the Gaudreau family continued their advocacy for awareness and responsibility by imploring others not to drink and drive.
Honoring Johnny and Matthew’s Legacy
It has comforted the Gaudreau family in this part of their sorrow to know that the memory and legacy of Johnny and Matthew endure. Their deaths have brought attention to community support, safety awareness, and the lasting impacts of love and family. Amid mourning, the Gaudreaus are preparing for new life. Both Meredith and Madeline are due to give birth in upcoming months.
Conclusion:
Love United in Sorrow Wrapped around by an ocean of despair after the death of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, this love stays put as a beacon of strength, commitment, and promise. Meredith’s pregnancy announcement during the memorial service indeed made for a moment about renewal and continuance during a heart-wrenching time and a reminder of the unbroken bond between her and Johnny. The family would move on, knowing the community is around them and the legacies left from Johnny and Matthew were alive in their children.
