Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 9, 2024 3:40 am GMT
Funeral Service Held for Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau
Family, friends, and fans gathered on Monday, September 9, at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Media, Pennsylvania, to honor the lives of brothers Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. The brothers, both respected figures in the hockey world, tragically died in a bicycle accident in New Jersey just before their sister Katie’s wedding. The ceremony is set to be livestreamed, allowing fans and community members to pay their respects remotely.
A Tragic Loss
The Gaudreau brothers met their untimely deaths on August 29 when they were struck by an SUV while biking. Authorities have reported that the driver, Sean M. Higgins, was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. He faces multiple charges, including two counts of death by auto. The incident has sent shockwaves through the hockey community, highlighting both the brothers’ athletic achievements and the personal tragedy faced by their family.
Impact on the Hockey Community
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, affectionately known as “Johnny Hockey,” was an All-Star for the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets. His younger brother Matthew, 29, played collegiately at Boston College before also embarking on a professional hockey career. The service attracted a significant turnout, including NHL players, coaches, and community members, many of whom are expected to share their condolences and memories during the service.
Shared Memories and Tributes
Before the funeral, candlelight vigils were held in Calgary and Columbus, where fans gathered to celebrate the lives of the Gaudreau brothers. Speeches featured heartfelt memories and anecdotes, emphasizing their kindness and positive influence on teammates and family alike. Boston College associate coach Mike Ayers noted, “They were both very, very talented hockey players but they were great people to be around and made everything around them fun.”
Pledges of Support for the Families
In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated to support Matthew’s widow, Madeline, and their expected child due in December. The campaign has raised over $645,000 from nearly 9,000 donors, including many from the hockey community. Donations have poured in since the brothers’ deaths, signifying the deep impact they had on fans and fellow athletes.
Continued Remembrance
As tributes continue to flow in on social media and at makeshift memorials, the legacy of the Gaudreau brothers remains alive. Their sister Katie, who was to marry the day after her brothers’ deaths, has shared cherished memories online, expressing her longing to connect with them one last time. The public and hockey community have rallied around the Gaudreau family, demonstrating solidarity and support in this difficult time.
What Lies Ahead
Following the service, the impact of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau will continue to resonate throughout the hockey community. The public mourning reflects the deep connections formed through their sport, proving that their influence transcends the rink. Their lives, though cut short, will be remembered through the ongoing support for their family and the countless memories shared by friends, teammates, and fans.
If you want to join the funeral service online, you can watch it on CalgaryFlames.com or through the Flames app. It will start at 10 a.m. MT on September 9.
