It has been one week since the hockey world suffered an unimaginable loss when a suspected impaired driver struck and killed Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau while they were biking home from a rehearsal dinner for their sister who was slated to be married. Today the obituary for Johnny was published.
In it, the elder Gaudreau was described as a devoted son, loving husband and adoring father who is survived by his wife of three years Meridith his daughter Noa and his son John. While it may seem like his obituary looks standard, the obituary goes on to describe Gaudreau's accomplishments and how he was a humble individual who loved his family which he cared about most. But most of all it described Gaudreau's legacy, which many of us were privileged to witness on and off the ice.
The tragedy that took Johnny and Matthew is something that should not have happened and we shouldn't be experiencing what we have had to over the last week. However, the multiple testimonials, tributes and memorials have provided many an opportunity to grieve together, in a moment such as this so many need.
Due to the nature of the tragedy and the outpouring of support, the NHL and the Columbus Blue Jackets have made available a live stream of the service. The service itself can be viewed HERE.