You’re hearing the story of a love that ended too soon. Meredith Gaudreau, wife of late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, has shared a deeply emotional tribute to her husband in honor of Father’s Day. In an essay published by The Players’ Tribune, she reflected on their life together, their children, and the heart-shattering moment she found out Johnny and his brother Matthew had been killed in a tragic biking accident. Her words offer a window into both profound grief and enduring love.
She Recalls The Final Morning With Johnny Before Everything Changed
On August 29, the day of the accident, Meredith had no reason to think the hours ahead would change her life forever. She described the moment with vivid clarity. “It was going to be a great day,” she wrote, explaining they had a wedding to attend the next day. Johnny had kissed her and their children goodbye that morning. “You kissed all of us goodbye and said you’d see us later. And that was that.” Everything felt normal until she received a phone call from Johnny’s sister, Katie Gaudreau, saying something had happened — though details were still unclear.
The Worst News Came As She Walked Onto The Front Porch
Meredith’s father drove her to the Gaudreau family home. Her mind was focused on how she could support Johnny through whatever had happened to his brother, Matthew. But when she arrived, everything unraveled. “I walked up the front porch and learned the absolute worst had happened and that it was both of you,” she wrote. That moment shattered the world she knew. The shock was so intense it left her physically ill. “I was keeled over for days,” she admitted. The weight of the loss was almost too much to carry, especially while pregnant with their third child.
She Found Solace In Her Bond With Matthew’s Widow
Meredith shared that Matthew’s wife, Madeline, is the only person who can truly understand the depth of her loss. The connection between them now holds unimaginable weight. “The only person who can relate to me is my own sister-in-law,” she explained. “I see her and my heart breaks for her. I’m sick for her.” Their shared grief has created a space of quiet understanding, where words may not always be necessary. In the face of unimaginable pain, that connection has helped her feel less alone in her mourning.
Their Children Keep Johnny’s Memory Alive Every Day
Even as she navigates loss, Meredith finds comfort in watching their children reflect parts of Johnny. They had three kids together: Noa, age 2, Johnny, now 14 months old, and Carter, who was born just seven months after his father passed away. “I see those wonderful bits of you in our kids every day,” she wrote. She described Noa as fiercely competitive, with dark eyes and a smile just like Johnny’s. Their son Johnny, she noted, has his dad’s quiet personality and thoughtful presence. These traits bring her daily reminders of the man she loved.
Support From Family, Community, And The Hockey World Has Helped
Over the last ten months, Meredith has leaned on the strength of her community. She mentioned that people from all corners of life stepped up to support her and her children. “The hockey world, the sports world, they showed up for us, too,” she shared. One thing she cherished most was how people came to know Johnny not just as “Johnny Hockey,” but as a husband and a father. “You never cared if someone thought you were a good or bad player,” she wrote. “You just wanted them to know you as John, Noa and Johnny’s dad.”
Her Letter Is A Tribute To A Life Filled With Love And Gratitude
In closing her letter, Meredith shared words that echoed with love, grief, and deep appreciation. “Thank you for the very best years of my life,” she wrote. “Thank you for making us a family. Thank you for being my best friend, my favorite person, the man of my dreams. I love you so much. Forever and ever.” Her words reflected the kind of bond that continues even in absence. Though her heart is broken, her memories remain whole. You could feel the gratitude in every sentence — a testament to a life built together, filled with meaning and unwavering love.
Do You Think Sharing Grief Openly Helps Others Heal From Loss Too? Let us know in the comments on Facebook.
Via: ENews
