Wife of killed NHL star Johnny Gaudreau reveals she’s pregnant in devastating eulogy as brother’s widow also expecting
THE wife of former Columbus Blue Jackets hockey player Johnny Gaudreau has revealed she is pregnant with the pair’s third child while speaking at her husband’s funeral.
Johnny and his brother Matthew were killed by an alleged drunk driver on August 29 while biking in New Jersey.
Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau, who was tragically killed, and his wife MeredithInstagram/Meredith Gaudreau
ReutersJane Gaudreau, second from left, and Meredith Gaudreau, middle in blue, watch a hearse take away Johnny’s body at his funeral on September 9, 2024[/caption]
ReutersMembers of the Columbus Blue Jackets arrive at St. Mary Magdalen Parish in Pennsylvania for the NFL star’s funeral[/caption]
APMeredith Gaudreau’s father, Ed Morris, spoke on behalf of the family on Monday[/caption]
The tragedy happened only a day before their sister Katie Gaudreau’s wedding in Philadelphia.
On Monday, the pair were honored at a funeral where Johnny’s wife Meredith shared the emotional announcement during her eulogy.
“We’re actually a family of five. I’m in my ninth week of pregnancy with our third baby,” she revealed, according to The Columbus Dispatch.
The mom said the week she found out was her “favorite week” of her life.
“A total surprise, but, again, Johnny’s beaming and so excited.”
She recalled the moment she told Johnny who was elated about the news.
“I was so nervous because, again, this was a total surprise, but his reaction was just immediately kissing me and hugging me even though I was driving the car,” she said.
The pair already have two young children named Noah and Johnny.
A hockey fan posted to X to reflect on the announcement.
“Their children are growing up without their dad because of the decision to drink and drive. Her tribute was beautiful,” they wrote.
“There are so many stories that continue to be shared about how much he loved everyone.”
‘UNFATHOMABLE LOSS’
Matthew was also expecting his first child with his wife Madeline.
A GoFundMe page was organized to raise money for first-time mom Madeline.
Full statement from Columbus Blue Jackets
“The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy.
“Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family, and friends on the sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew.
“Johnny played the game with great joy which was felt by everyone that saw him on the ice. He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played from Boston College to the Calgary Flames to Team USA to the Blue Jackets.
“He thrilled fans in a way only Johnny Hockey could. The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound but pales in comparison to the indelible impression he made on everyone who knew him.
“Johnny embraced our community when he arrived two years ago, and Columbus welcomed him with open arms. We will miss him terribly and do everything that we can to support his family and each other through this tragedy.
“At this time, we ask for prayers for the Gaudreau family and that their privacy be respected as they grieve.”
“We are heartbroken to share the devastating news that the Gaudreau family has experienced a tragic and unfathomable loss,” it read.
“In this unimaginably difficult time, we are coming together to support Matthew’s wife, Madeline, and their growing baby Tripp, and help alleviate some of the financial burdens they now face.
“Your support will allow them the time to take off work to grieve and heal as a family.
“Although no amount of money can ease the pain of loss, your support on any level will help take some of the financial weight off the Gaudreau family as they navigate this journey.”
The money will be put toward funeral expenses and their baby.
The GoFundMe goal was $30,000 and at the time of writing it had raised $648,776.
Madeline’s sister shared the GoFundMe to her Facebook writing, “There are no words big or strong enough to convey our condolences.”
THE TRAGEDY
Johnny and Matthew were biking on the road in Oldmans Township — about 73 miles from Atlantic City and close to their hometown in Salem County, New Jersey.
Sean Higgins, 43, has been arrested for allegedly hitting the brothers.
Police told The U.S. Sun they were riding “close to the fog line of the roadway.”
At one point, an SUV in front of Higgins moved to the middle of the road to safely pass them.
“Higgins then attempted to pass the SUV on the right and struck the two pedal cyclists in the rear,” cops said.
Higgins was suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol.
He allegedly admitted to having five or six beers before the accident.
The diver has been charged with two counts of vehicular homicide.
ReutersThe Gaudreau family arrives at St. Mary Magdalen Parish for the funeral service for Columbus Blue Jackets hockey player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew Gaudreau[/caption]
ReutersNHL players, including Seth Jones, Cole Caufield, and Connor Murphy arrive at Johnny’s funeral[/caption]
Instagram/Meredith GaudreauJohnny and Meredith hug while standing on a golf course[/caption]
Instagram/Meredith GaudreauThe star was on the team for two seasons before his death[/caption]
