On Monday, September 9, 2024, St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Media, Pennsylvania, was the setting for the somber tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, NHL stars who tragically lost their lives in a cycling accident on August 29, 2024, in Oldmans Township, New Jersey.
A vast crowd, comprising family, friends, and figures from the hockey world, gathered to mourn. Notable attendees included the entire Blue Jackets team, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, and Jerry York, the former coach at Boston College, all there to honor the brothers.
The eulogies delivered by Johnny’s wife, Meredith Gaudreau, and Matthew’s wife, Madeline Gaudreau, deeply touched those present. Meredith recounted the happiness Johnny brought to their lives, especially as a father, and shared the heartwarming news that they were expecting a third child. She portrayed Johnny’s glee upon discovering the pregnancy as an uplifting moment amid their loss.
Madeline, expecting their first child named Tripp, expressed Matthew’s profound commitment to fatherhood. She detailed his proactive steps in preparation for the role, from extensive reading to selecting the optimal childcare products.
Katie, the brothers’ sister, who was due to be married the day after their untimely deaths, has been posting old photographs online, celebrating the brothers’ lives and enabling communal remembrance during this painful time.
A private viewing held the day before the public funeral allowed closer acquaintances one last moment with the Gaudreaus, commending their contributions to hockey and to their loved ones.
Sean M. Higgins, the 43-year-old driver implicated in causing their deaths, is incarcerated with a court date set for September 13. He faces multiple charges including two counts of vehicular homicide and additional driving infractions.
Overwhelming support has surfaced for Madeline through a GoFundMe page set up to assist her and the upcoming child, expected in December. The fund has considerably exceeded expectations, raising over $645,000 from nearly 9,000 contributors, many from the NHL community.
As the shock of the tragedy lingers, the Gaudreau brothers’ impact on their community and sport continues to resonate, with their lives and roles as siblings, athletes, and forthcoming fathers being fondly remembered and celebrated across social media and beyond.
