Johnny Gaudreau's Legacy: His Heart Beats in Meredith, Noa, Johnny Jr., and Carter ❤️

Johnny Gaudreau, affectionately known as Johnny Hockey, was one of the NHL's most beloved players. With his electrifying speed, skill, and infectious smile, he starred for the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets, inspiring fans across the United States and beyond. But his greatest legacy isn't on the ice—it's in his loving family: wife Meredith Gaudreau and their three children: Noa Harper Gaudreau, Johnny Edward Gaudreau Jr., and Carter Michael Gaudreau.

Meredith with one of her little ones, wearing Johnny's #13 – a symbol of enduring love ❤️

In August 2024, tragedy struck when Johnny and his brother Matthew were killed in a cycling accident in New Jersey. Meredith was seven months pregnant at the time. Despite this unimaginable loss, she has raised their children with incredible strength, keeping Johnny's memory alive every day.

Johnny's Heartbeat in His Children

Noa (born September 2022, now 3+) radiates her dad's energy—she's often seen cheering with an American flag at Team USA events. Johnny Jr. (born February 22, 2024, now 2) shares his father's smile and charm. And the youngest, Carter (born April 1, 2025, posthumously), arrived at the exact same birth measurements as his dad (8lb 3oz, 20.5 inches) and looks just like him. Meredith has said, "He looks exactly like his daddy too." These three truly embody the caption: "His heart beats in them."

The Gaudreau family stays connected to hockey – Johnny's spirit lives on

Meredith, a master's holder in pediatric nursing, is now a dedicated single mom. She keeps the family tied to hockey through Columbus Blue Jackets games, Calgary Flames visits, and the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, which supports youth hockey and raises awareness about drunk driving.

Emotional 2026 Winter Olympics Tribute

The most touching moment came at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, where Team USA won men's hockey gold—the first since 1980. Johnny's No. 13 jersey hung in the locker room all tournament. After defeating Canada in overtime, players like Dylan Larkin and Zach Werenski carried the jersey around the ice, then brought Noa and Johnny Jr. onto the rink for the team photo. The kids joined the celebration, surrounded by gold medals and love. Meredith, along with Johnny's parents Guy and Jane, watched emotionally from the stands. It was a powerful "For Johnny" tribute.

Noa with a Team USA star – a golden moment for Johnny's legacy ❤️

The full Team USA squad with Noa and Johnny Jr. – "For Johnny Hockey" forever

Johnny's legacy endures beyond the ice—in his children's smiles, Meredith's strength, and every tribute. Noa cheers with flags, Johnny Jr. celebrates on special days like his birthday (which coincided with the gold win), and Carter grows up knowing his dad's story. As Meredith often says: "You were perfect." This family is a beautiful example of eternal love and resilience.

Johnny Gaudreau's story reminds us that life is short, but love and legacy last forever. Meredith, Noa, Johnny Jr., and Carter are his most precious chapter. ❤️

Word count: ~520 | Updated: February 2026