The two brothers were back in their hometown for their sister Katie's wedding when their lives were tragically cut short on Thursday night by an intoxicated driver, Sean Higgins. The tragedy struck just one day before the wedding, leading to its cancellation.
Katie Gaudreau, who was preparing to walk down the aisle, turned to Instagram to express her grief and honor her brothers. She shared her heartbreak in a powerful message:
"To know these two was to love these two. There are absolutely no words I have to express the bond my family shared. The entire world knows there would never have been a John without Matty or Matty without John. The absolute best big brothers a little girl could have asked for. This will never be a goodbye post because I will never stop saying your names and honoring you both. I'll take the best care of mom, dad, Kristen, Mer, Madeline, and your babies."
Johnny Gaudreau will be remembered as one of the NHL's most talented undersized players, boasting an impressive 115-point season and a Lady Byng Trophy. His legacy with the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets will endure in hockey history.
Matthew Gaudreau was a respected community leader, serving as a high school hockey coach and formerly playing in the AHL with the New York Islanders organization. His wife, expecting their first child, Tripp, has seen tremendous support, with a GoFundMe campaign raising over $500,000.