Matthew Tkachuk, a former teammate of Gaudreau with the Calgary Flames, expressed his grief on social media, stating, “Absolutely devastated. I will miss seeing that smile! RIP Hockey! Love you bro.” Tkachuk shared several photos of Gaudreau, reflecting on their time together and the deep bond they shared Florida Hockey Now
Blake Coleman, another former Flames teammate, tweeted, “Completely gutted. The world just lost one of the best. RIP Johnny.” Coleman remembered Gaudreau not just as a talented player, but as a friend who always brought joy to the locker roomDaily Hive Van
Meredith Gaudreau, the widow of former professional hockey player Johnny Gaudreau, shared a series of emotional tributes on social media following the tragic deaths of her husband and his brother, Matthew. The two brothers were killed in a bike crash in New Jersey on Thursday night, just a day before their sister’s wedding.
Johnny Gaudreau’s widow posts heartbreaking tributes on Instagram after the former NHL star and his brother Matthew died in a tragic bicycle accident: Johnny Gaudreau’s widow Meredith shared a number of tributes from… https://t.co/YmqV6Bwn9X #dailymail #Instagram #NewJersey
— WhatsNew2Day (@whatsn2day) September 1, 2024
Three days after the accident, Meredith took to Instagram to post heartfelt messages from friends and family celebrating Johnny’s life. One poignant memory came from Meredith’s sister, Lily, who recalled how Johnny had sneaked out of his own bachelor party to spend time with his future wife at her parents’ house. “A small glimpse into how much he loves my sister,” Lily wrote, calling it one of her favorite memories.
Among the tributes, Meredith shared a video from Johnny’s former team, the Columbus Blue Jackets. The clip featured Johnny speaking about his close bond with his family, followed by a montage of his life moments. Reflecting on their relationship, Meredith wrote, “Idk how I got so lucky. The best guy in the world. The best smile ever. His eyes are my favorite. I love you, my husband and best friend.”
Rasmus Andersson, who also played with Gaudreau on the Flames, said, “You were a hell of a hockey player, but it’s the person Johnny that always is going to be with me, one of my closest friends. It didn’t matter if we hadn’t spoken in a day or a week; we always knew where we had each other!” His tribute underscored the personal connection and friendship they maintained over the years Daily Hive Van
Pittsburgh Penguins star Kevin Hayes, a former teammate of Johnny, also paid tribute. Hayes, who lost his brother and former NHL player Jimmy Hayes in 2021, shared a photo of Johnny high-fiving his nephew, Beau. “Love you John!” Hayes wrote. “Say hello to Beau’s Dad for me.” In a longer post, Hayes expressed his gratitude for the friendship he had with the Gaudreau brothers, describing Johnny as “the most humble, grounded, funniest, stubborn superstar” and a cherished friend and teammate.
Meredith also honored Matthew, thanking him for being a loving uncle and godfather to her children. She wrote, “Matty, thank you for loving our babies like your own and for being such an amazing uncle and godfather. I can’t wait to return the honor when I become Tripp’s aunt.” She expressed comfort in knowing that Johnny and Matthew are now together in heaven, adding, “Please continue to take care of John like you always have. I got Madeline and Tripp. We love you very much.”
Eddie Lack, a former NHL goaltender and teammate, shared, “Johnny was one of my favorite teammates I’ve ever played with. Always happy, always spreading positivity around him. Rest in Peace, my friend, and prayers for your wonderful family. Hug your loved ones”Daily Hive Van
Johnny and Meredith were married in September 2021 and welcomed their daughter, Nora Harper, in October 2022. Their second child, Johnny Edward, was born in February of this year. Matthew’s widow, Madeline, is expecting their first child, Tripp, in December.
Breaking: Johnny Gaudreau’s widow posts heartbreaking tributes on Instagram after former NHL star and brother Matthew died in tragic bike crash https://t.co/dGeed2ZQOA #bike #brother #crash pic.twitter.com/UNYE8fRnN2
— WhatsNew2Day (@whatsn2day) September 1, 2024
The loss of Johnny and Matthew has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew them. As tributes continue to pour in, the hockey community and their loved ones mourn the passing of two beloved brothers.
Key Points:
- Heartfelt Tributes: Meredith Gaudreau, widow of Johnny Gaudreau, shared moving tributes from family and friends following the tragic deaths of her husband and his brother, Matthew, in a bike crash.
- Memories and Love: Meredith’s sister recalled Johnny’s deep love for his wife, sharing a memory of him sneaking out of his bachelor party to be with her.
- Support from Friends: Former teammate Kevin Hayes paid tribute, highlighting Johnny’s humility and character, and expressing gratitude for their friendship.
- Honoring Matthew: Meredith honored her brother-in-law, Matthew, for his love and support for her children, expressing comfort that the brothers are together in heaven.
- Family Legacy: Johnny and Meredith had two young children, while Matthew’s widow is expecting their first child, continuing the family legacy amidst the tragedy.
RM Tomi – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
