Johnny Gaudreau's wife Meredith reserves a special place for deceased NHL star in the "HOF of life"

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Nov 12, 2024 06:12 GMT

On November 11 at the Hockey Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Lanny McDonald honored the memory of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew. The Gaudreau brothers, who died in a bike accident on August 29, left a lasting mark on the hockey world.

This is especially true of Johnny Gaudreau, who was a fan favorite in Columbus and Calgary and was popularly known as "Johnny Hockey."

Replying to a video of McDonald's speech posted by NHL Network, Johnny Gaudreau's wife Meredith wrote,

"He made it into the HOF of life in my eyes"

In his tribute, McDonald said the news devastated the hockey world and talked about Johnny's memories.

"Everyone here at the hall wishes to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau," McDonald said. "The news on September 1 devastated the hockey world and everyone who'd had the pleasure of meeting or knowing Johnny or Matthew."

McDonald remembered Johnny as a player who loved the game and gave his all on the ice.

"I got to know Johnny and his family quite well during his eight seasons with the Flames, and I can tell you that nobody loved the game or played over his weight class like Johnny Goodrow did," McDonald said. "He was a joy to be around, and everyone in the hockey world will miss him and his brother Matthew."

"Anyone who knows the game knows Johnny would have been here someday. Tonight, he and Matthew are in our thoughts and prayers of everyone in the hockey community and at the Hall of Fame." McDonald added.

The brothers were in their hometown of Salem County, New Jersey to be groomsmen at their sister's wedding. Tragically, a driver allegedly under the influence struck them while they were biking, resulting in fatal injuries. The driver faces charges of death by auto.

Johnny Gaudreau leaves behind his wife Meredith, their two young children, and a third child expected soon.

Meredith shared Johnny Gaudreau's moments with Noa

Meredith Gaudreau shared some sweet family moments with her late husband, Johnny Gaudreau, and their daughter, Noa. In one Instagram story last week, Johnny was holding newborn Noa, smiling down at her while she was wrapped in a blanket. Meredith captioned it,

"This daddy-daughter bond."

Johnny with daughter Noa. (via Instagram/@meredithgaudreau_)

On September 30, the Columbus Blue Jackets celebrated Noa's second birthday with team members, families, and a sign that said, “Happy 2nd Birthday Noa!”

On October 30, Meredith posted pictures from a family beach day. In one, Noa, wearing a yellow swimsuit, reaches out to Johnny, who smiles at her. Meredith’s sister, Tyler, shared videos of Noa playing on the sand, calling her "the best ball girl."