Erik Gudbranson’s wife, Sarah, shared time with Johnny Gaudreau’s widow, Meredith (Credit: IG @sarahsweetnam) — Erik Gudbranson’s wife, Sarah, shared time with Johnny Gaudreau’s widow, Meredith (image credits: instagram/sarahsweetnam)

"Most beautiful mama and strongest person": Erik Gudbranson's wife Sarah heaps praises on Johnny Gaudreau's widow Meredith

Modified Dec 05, 2024 15:43 GMT

Erik Gudbranson’s wife Sarah recently shared a heartfelt tribute to Johnny Gaudreau’s widow, Meredith. She praised Meredith for her strength and resilience during this difficult time. The hockey community gathered at Scotiabank Saddledome to honor Johnny before the Calgary Flames faced off against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday.

Johnny and his brother Matthew died in August after being struck by an alleged drunk driver in New Jersey. The tragedy deeply affected both the Flames and the Blue Jackets, as well as their fans. Johnny, a skilled player and fan favorite, spent eight seasons with the Flames before joining the Blue Jackets in 2022. He was only 31 years old, and Matthew was 29.

The pregame tribute was emotional, with players, fans and Gaudreau’s family honoring his legacy. Banners with Johnny’s Calgary Flames jersey and personal memorabilia were displayed.

Sarah Gudbranson shared photos of Meredith, Frida Backlund, Claudia Mangiapane, Tessa Andersson and Maggie Jenner. In her post, she called Meredith the "strongest person."

"Special to be back in Calgary with these girls for such a special few days to support the most beautiful mama and the strongest person we know Love you so much @meredithgaudreau We are all so proud of you," Sarah captioned.

Erik Gudbranson's wife Sarah shared on IG (image credit: instagram/sarahsweetnam)

The pictures showed families and friends from the Flames community gathering for meals, spending time with children and attending the Saddledome tribute.

One photo showed Calgary Flames players' partners standing together in Flames jerseys, symbolizing their support for Meredith. Other images captured moments of bonding over shared memories of Johnny.

Calgary Flames played a video tribute for Johnny Gaudreau

The Calgary Flames honored Johnny Gaudreau with a video tribute to his Calgary career. Flames anthem singer George Canyon performed and both teams wore his No. 13 jerseys during warmups. The tribute included Gaudreau's message following his move to Columbus.

"I hope the people of Calgary can remember me not only as a hockey player but also as a good person with good values," Gaudreau said. "Thank you for supporting me over the years, and for making my family a part of yours."

Johnny’s wife Meredith, parents Guy and Jane and his children Noa and Johnny Jr. attended the ceremony. They joined Flames captain Mikael Backlund and Blue Jackets forward Sean Monahan for a ceremonial puck drop.

Fans chanted "Johnny Hockey" near the end of the game, showing their love for him. The Flames won 3-0, and Johnny Gaudreau was named the game’s first star.