Johnny Gaudreau’s widow reveals pregnancy with third child at memorial service

The widow of Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau, Meredith Gaudreau, revealed that she is pregnant with their third child during a memorial service held for both Johnny and his brother, Matthew Gaudreau. The service took place on September 9, 2024, at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Media, Pennsylvania.

Meredith reflected on the joy of their family moments as she shared, “John and I had the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the best six months of my life.” She went on to express the significance of a cherished week they shared, adding, “We’re actually a family of five. I’m in my ninth week of pregnancy with our third baby.”

During her heartfelt speech, she indicated that the news of her pregnancy came as a “total surprise.” She recounted, “John was beaming and so excited,” recalling his immediate reaction of joy as he embraced her.

Meredith and Johnny welcomed their first child, a daughter named Noa Harper Gaudreau, on September 30, 2022. Their son, Johnny Edward Gaudreau, was born on February 22, 2024. In her remarks at the memorial, Meredith noted, “Noa, our oldest, hasn’t even turned two yet. In less than three years of marriage, we’ve created a family of five. It doesn’t even sound possible, but I look at it as the ultimate blessing. How lucky am I to be the mother of John’s three babies?” She emphasized that their newest addition is a unique blessing despite the difficult circumstances they are currently facing.

“To my babies, daddy loves you all so much and you have the best daddy in the world,” she said, evoking emotional reactions from those present.

Tragically, Johnny Gaudreau, 31, and his brother Matthew, 29, lost their lives on August 29, when they were struck by a car while riding bikes in Salem County, New Jersey. The driver suspected of being under the influence of alcohol has been charged with two counts of death by auto.

Adding to the grief, Matthew Gaudreau’s wife, Madeline, is also expecting their first child. At the memorial service, she shared her heart-wrenching emotions, stating, “This last week has felt like I’ve been trapped in a nightmare I can’t wake up from. I feel numb, angry, sad, blessed all at once.” Madeline expressed how the thought of this harsh new reality has been difficult to grasp but reiterated how much she misses Matthew.

Reflecting on their fourteen years together, she said, “The time we spent will never be enough, but I will cherish those and hold them close to my heart.” She reminisced about Matthew’s excitement upon learning they were having a son, describing him as someone who was “born to be a dad.”

Madeline conveyed, “The moment we found out about our son Tripp, it consumed his every day.” She recalled his enthusiasm in preparing for fatherhood, from researching baby products to asking Johnny for advice. Through tears, she expressed confidence that Matthew will always be watching over their child.

She also voiced a wish for their children to share the same close bond that the brothers had. In a touching moment, she assured Meredith, “I promise that I will always be there for you and the kids.”

At the service, Madeline urged the audience to avoid drinking and driving, saying, “Please do not put another family through this torture.”

Both brothers had passed away just before their sister, Katie, was set to marry, a poignancy noted by their former coaches. Meredith described the brothers as “always side by side” and as “absolute best friends” in a heartfelt message shared on social media shortly after their tragic deaths.

She expressed comfort in knowing they are together, stating, “I don’t think John could live a day without you so I’m comforted knowing you are of course together in heaven.” In her message to Matthew, she expressed gratitude for his love towards her children, pledging to care for his wife and their upcoming son with a heartfelt commitment, saying, “Please continue to take care of John like you always have. I got Madeline and Tripp.”

In the wake of this devastating loss, the Gaudreau family illustrates the profound grief and the enduring love that envelops them during this difficult time.

Source: ABC News