Matthew Gaudreau's Widow Marks His First Birthday Since His Tragic Death: 'Can't Wait to Kiss Your Face Again'

Mar. 15, 2025

Madeline Gaudreau, Matthew Gaudreau.Photo:Madeline Gaudreau/Instagram

Madeline Gaudreau/Instagram

The widow of late hockey starMatthew Gaudreaupaid tribute to him on social media with a touching post marking his first birthday since his tragic death.

“John better have friends playing all day, double stuff Oreos and a nice glass of whiskey for you. 💙🦋 I love you and can’t wait to kiss your face again.”

In photos shared on Madeline’sInstagram, of the celebration, she thanked her family and friends.

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Matthew Gaudreau, Madeline Gaudreau.Matthew Gaudreau/Instagram

Matthew Gaudreau/Instagram

“All my friends and family, nothing [will] bring his dad back, [or] Uncle John back, but I am glad he has so many amazing people around him to remind him how amazing they were 💙,” she continued, speaking about her son.

Matthew and Johnny, 31, were tragically killed when a driver suspected of being under the influence of alcohol struck and killed them in Oldmans Township, N.J. just after 8 p.m on Aug. 29.

New Jersey State Police said in a statement to PEOPLE at the time that the driver, identified as Sean M. Higgins, was attempting to pass another car when he fatally struck the brothers.

Johnny and Matthew were in town for their sister Katie Gaudreau’s wedding — which was rescheduled from its Aug. 30 date after the sudden death of the bride’s brothers — where they were set to serve as groomsmen.

source: people.com