Johnny Gaudreau’s widow, Meredith, shared a series of tributes from family and friends following the tragic passing of her late husband and brother-in-law in a bicycle accident on Thursday night.
Johnny and his brother Matthew, both former professional hockey players, were struck by a vehicle while riding their bicycles in New Jersey the night before their sister’s wedding.
Three days after their deaths, Meredith posted heartbreaking tributes from friends and family on her Instagram Story, commemorating Johnny’s life.
The first story comes from Meredith’s sister Lily, who tells the story of Johnny sneaking away from his bachelor party and showing up at his parents’ house to be with his future wife.
“A little glimpse of how much he loves my sister,” Lily wrote of what she called “one of my fondest memories.”
Johnny Gaudreau’s widow, Meredith, posted a heartbreaking tribute to her late husband
Johnny and his brother Matthew were killed in a tragic bicycle accident in New Jersey on Thursday
Among a series of photos of memories from people close to him, Meredith also included a video tribute from Johnny’s former team, the Columbus Blue Jackets. In the clip, Johnny acknowledged how close he is to his family before a montage unfolds showing all aspects of his life.
“I don’t know how I got so lucky,” Meredith wrote. “The best man in the world. The best smile ever. His eyes are my favorite. I love you, my husband and best friend.”
Among the tributes shared in Meredith’s story was from Johnny’s former teammate and Pittsburgh Penguins star Kevin Hayes. Hayes lost his brother and former NHLer Jimmy in August 2021, the day after his son’s second birthday.
Kevin posted a photo of Gaudreau high-fiving Hayes’ nephew, Beau, on his Instagram Story.
“I love you John!” Hayes said on Instagram. “Say hi to Beau’s dad for me.”
In a lengthy post featuring a carousel of their photos, Hayes wrote, “14 years ago I was asked to show Johnny and Matty around the Boston College campus, not knowing what friendships I would make. I am so grateful that the Gaudreaus came into my life. Everyone who meets them is truly happier.”
Meredith reposted a tribute from her sister Lily, highlighting Johnny’s love for her
Meredith also shared a tribute from Johnny’s former team, the Columbus Blue Jackets
An image shows the crash that killed Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau on Thursday night
“I can’t believe I can’t call John anymore. He was the most humble, down-to-earth, funniest, most stubborn superstar I’ve ever seen. He was always told he was too small and he used that to become the best. He was the best friend, father, husband, brother, son and teammate we could ever ask for.”
“It is impossible to express how much you will be missed. The world will not be the same without the Gaudreau brothers. Until we meet again.”
Johnny and Meredith married in September 2021 and had their firstborn, Nora Harper, on October 3, 2022.
The couple welcomed their second child, Johnny Edward, on February 27 this year. Meanwhile, Matthew’s widow, Madeline, is expected to give birth to their first child, Tripp, in late December.
In a tribute to her late brother-in-law, Meredith wrote, “Matty, thank you for loving our babies like they were 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.”
“I don’t think John could live a day without you, so I just take comfort in knowing that you’re both in heaven, of course. Please continue to take care of John like you always have. I have Madeline and Tripp. We love you both very much.”