"John better have friends playing": Matthew Gaudreau's wife Madeline pens heartfelt note on his birthday

Modified Dec 06, 2024 20:32 GMT

Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau died in late August in a bike accident. Madeline Gaudreau, widow of Matthew Gaudreau, shared a loving message for his birthday on December 5. She wrote on Instagram:

"Happy Birthday to the best husband and father 🤍. The moment I met you, I knew you were the one. I am more in love with you every day and honored to be your wife."

Madeline also added a fun wish for Johnny:

"John better have friends playing all day, double stuff Oreos, and a nice glass of whiskey for you."

She ended the message for her husband with:

"I love you and can’t wait to kiss your face again."

She shared a picture with Matthew, with both looking in each other's eyes. Matthew was wearing a gray t-shirt and Madeline was wearing a black dress.

Matthew and his brother Johnny tragically passed away in a bike crash. They were riding in their hometown of Salem County, New Jersey. The accident involved a driver suspected of being under the influence.

Johnny played for the Columbus Blue Jackets, while Matthew had been a coach for a high school team. Madeline is expecting her first child and continues to honor Matthew’s memory.

Calgary Flames honored Matthew Gaudreau and Johnny

The Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets honored Matthew Gaudreau and Johnny with a special tribute on December 3.

Before the game, both teams lined up for a ceremony with Johnny Gaudreau's 13 and Matthew's 21 projected on the ice rink. A video tribute highlighted Johnny’s time with Calgary, accompanied by Johnny B. Goode sung by George Canyon.

The Gaudreau family, including Johnny’s father Guy, mother Jane, and siblings Kristen and Katie, joined for a ceremonial puck drop. Mikael Backlund and Sean Monahan took the face-off as both teams surrounded the family.

Players from both teams wore Johnny’s No. 13 during warmups. Rasmus Andersson scored the first goal and pointed to the Gaudreau family as a tribute. Johnny was named the first star of the game, and Guy joined Andersson and Backlund on the ice afterward.

Guy spent time with the Flames before the game, sharing stories and bringing laughter to the team. The Gaudreau family also attended the unveiling of benches made from items left at a summer memorial for Johnny.

Flames' goalie Dan Vladar donned a special mask featuring Matthew Gaudreau and Johnny.

Fans ended the night chanting "Johnny Hockey," showing how loved he was in Calgary.