Meredith Gaudreau marked the first anniversary of her husband Johnny Gaudreau’s death with a heartfelt message, saying she’s “one year closer to seeing you again” as she reflected on their life together. The tribute comes as she and Johnny welcomed their third child on April 1, a detail Meredith shared publicly as she continues to navigate life without him.
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew Gaudreau, 29, were killed last August when an alleged drunk driver struck them while they were riding bicycles the day before their sister Katie Gaudreau’s wedding. Meredith pointed out that August 29 holds different meaning for her: not only is it the anniversary of their deaths, but it also marks the couple’s engagement anniversary, which occurred on August 29, 2020.
Meredith posted a tribute video originally shared by the Columbus Blue Jackets and the NHL, noting that Aug. 29 is a reminder of what “forever” means to her. She added, “I love you,” underscoring the enduring bond she feels with Johnny.
The family plans to spend the anniversary at the Jersey Shore with their children and sister-in-law Madeline Gaudreau, Meredith told The Athletic in a profile published Aug. 27. Earlier, in a June Players’ Tribune essay, she described the moment she learned of the tragedy and the indescribable shock that followed.
In her reflections, Meredith recalled that Johnny had made breakfast for their daughter Noa, 2, and son Johnny, 1, on the morning of the tragedy, then packed the car for Katie’s wedding the next day. She described receiving a worried call from Johnny’s sister and rushing to his parents’ home, where the terrible news was confirmed. She described the moment as the worst she could imagine, noting that she was pregnant with their third child at the time and thinking of the baby growing inside her.
The family has continued to honor Johnny’s memory through their daily lives and the memories they share with their three children. The outpouring of tributes from teammates, fans, and the hockey community has underscored the lasting impact of Johnny and Matty Gaudreau’s lives.
Summary: Meredith Gaudreau uses the first anniversary of Johnny Gaudreau’s death to celebrate their love and memory, while continuing to raise their three children and honor the life they built together. The day is also tied to their engagement milestone and a plan to create new memories at the Jersey Shore.
Commentary: The piece highlights how families cope with loss while finding moments of celebration and continuity, turning a painful anniversary into a reminder of enduring love and shared memories. It also reflects how athletes’ families remain connected to the broader hockey community during difficult times, offering a hopeful, forward-looking narrative amid tragedy.