Heartfelt Tributes Continue for Gaudreau Brothers After Tragic Loss

Gaudreau and his younger brother tragically lost their lives near their childhood home in South Jersey, just the day before they were to serve as groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding. The driver accused of hitting them now faces charges of two counts of vehicular manslaughter, reckless driving, possession of an open container, and drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle.

“It’s been devastating,” Tkachuk shared. “It really has.”

Tributes for Gaudreau and his brother have poured in since their passing, and they’re not expected to stop anytime soon. On October 15, Tkachuk and the Florida Panthers will play in Columbus for the Blue Jackets’ first home game since Gaudreau’s death, a match that will undoubtedly be charged with deep emotion.

“Johnny was one of my favorite teammates, a great friend,” Tkachuk said. “Whether you knew them, played against them, or just have a sibling yourself, everyone can relate to this. It’s been terrible. I’ll always carry something with me to remind me of him.”

Tkachuk was among many from the hockey community who attended the memorial services for the Gaudreau brothers earlier this month. He’s been reflecting constantly on Johnny Gaudreau’s wife, Meredith, their children who lost their father, and the parents who lost both their sons.

“Everyone has done an amazing job of sharing stories and keeping his memory alive. That’s exactly what he would want — for us to smile when we think of him and remember the fun stories of what a great player, teammate, and even better person he was,” Tkachuk added. “My memory of him will live on forever.”