In an emotional essay published in The Players’ Tribune, Meredith Gaudreau paid tribute to her late husband, Johnny Gaudreau, on Father’s Day. She recounted their love story, their family life, and the profound impact of his absence following a tragic accident that claimed both him and his brother, Matthew Gaudreau.
Together, the couple built a life filled with love and laughter, welcoming three children: Noa, Johnny Jr., and Carter. Carter, the youngest of the three, was born only two months ago on April 1. Her daughter Meredith wrote to us that she treasured the unusual time they all had together as a family. She highlighted Johnny’s love and commitment to being a father. “You were the best spouse, my life partner forever. Happy first Father’s Day as a father of three!” she wrote.
Once Johnny was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets, the family moved to Ohio. Meredith said that despite both the new game’s location and the scenery change, Johnny’s heart for Calgary never wavered. It hasn’t stopped — it’s remained an important part of their lives. She discussed her brother-in-law Matthew and his family. She painted a picture of life with them both and captured the profound sorrow of having lost them both in a laughable accident.
In her heartfelt message, Meredith thanked “all of Columbus, Calgary, and the whole hockey community” for their support during this difficult time. Without going into detail, the post clearly expressed her love for Johnny and described how he would have loved their new little blessing.
Carter, boy do we wish you looked more like you, too. How lucky am I for that? I feel so strongly that you would want to meet your son, she wrote.
Meredith’s words struck right at the heart with deep sadness as she spoke to how the world was unfair because she was missing Johnny. “Thank you for the very best years of my life. 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,” she concluded.
As she navigates life without Johnny, Meredith Gaudreau continues to honor his memory while raising their children and managing The John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation alongside her responsibilities as a mother.
