Matthew & Johnny Gaudreau's mom Jane expresses gratitude to hockey clubs' tributes aiding family's 'most difficult times'

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Oct 21, 2024 04:31 GMT

Jane Gaudreau, mother of Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau, thanked the hockey clubs and fans for their tributes. On Sunday, she posted on X, formerly X, to express gratitude to the Columbus Blue Jackets, Worcester Railers, and Reading Royals for honoring her sons. Johnny and Matthew, two beloved brothers, died after a tragic accident in August.

The Gaudreau family faced a tragic loss when Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau were hit by a suspected drunk driver in New Jersey. The accident happened just a day before their sister's wedding. The hockey community has shown great love and support, which Jane appreciated deeply.

Before their home opener on October 16, 2024, the Columbus Blue Jackets honored Johnny and Matthew. Jane shared a picture of their jerseys, Johnny's #13 and Matthew's #21. She thanked the Blue Jackets, players, and the city of Columbus for their support during this difficult time.

"Thank you to the Columbus Blue Jackets organization, the players, their families, and the entire city of Columbus. The love and support you’ve shown for John, Matty, and our family have helped us through the most difficult time of our lives," she wrote.

In another post, Jane thanked the Worcester Railers and Reading Royals. She fondly remembered the times the family shared watching Matthew play for the Railers. The Railers, starting their 2024-25 ECHL season, honored the brothers by leaving an empty space on the ice during puck drop. Matthew's #21 jersey was displayed near the Railers' bench during the game.

"Thank you @RailersHC and @ReadingRoyals for honoring Matty and John last night. Our family has so many great memories in both Worcester and Reading watching Matty play. We are so thankful for all the love and support," she wrote.

Matthew Gaudreau had a solid career in the ECHL, playing 127 games with the Reading Royals and Worcester Railers. He scored 35 goals and earned 100 points during his time in the league.

Johnny Gaudreau's sister thanked Columbus Blue Jackets for support during tribute ceremony

Katie Gaudreau, Johnny Gaudreau's sister also thanked the Columbus Blue Jackets in an Instagram post on Friday. She appreciated their kindness during a ceremony honoring her late brothers. Before a game against the Florida Panthers, Johnny Gaudreau's wife, Meredith, and their children joined the Gaudreau family on the ice.

"Another week for our boys. Thank you to the entire Blue Jackets organization for everything. Thankful for every single one of them fans, staff, coaches, players, wives, and parents for taking the best care of my parents, my sisters, my nieces, and nephews," she wrote in the caption.

Katie Gaudreau stressed how much the support had meant to her family, including their parents and siblings.