In loving memory

Aylee Ahmadzadeh | August 31, 2024

For as long as I can remember Johnny Gaudreau was a significant hockey figure for me. I remember watching the Battle of Alberta and deciding I was choosing the flames side. As a Habs fan what did I know? But I knew I liked the grit and determination of the team. Johnny just added a spark to the team, he had the magic hands, he wasn't Johnny Hockey for no reason.

As a fan you watch hockey for the game but you stay for the personalities behind it, and Johnny was one of the best and most sincere out there. He did so much to help his surrounding communities, both in Calgary and Columbus. One of the more recent examples comes when he pledged that for every goal he scored he would donate $1000 to low income families to cover the cost of sporting equipment. That was just one example of his philanthropic personality.

Matthew Tkachuk via Instagram:

"Absolutely devastated. I will miss seeing that smile! RIP Hockey! love you bro 💔"

Waking up to the tragic news truly felt unreal, on the eve of a day that was meant for celebration and laughter but instead turned into grief and sorrow. Two innocent lives were cut short and now their families are heavily affected. I hope that this can be truly eye opening for those who engage in negligent behaviour while intoxicated. If you need to ask yourself if you are okay to drive, the safe and responsible answer is always no. There are countless options that can ensure that you and others get home safe, please utilize them. I wish the Gaudreau family and anyone affected by this tragedy nothing but peace, love, and healing. Matthew and Johnny will forever be in our hearts. #13 #21

If you are able, please consider donating to the GoFundMe set up for soon to be mother Madeline Gaudreau https://gofund.me/e6b42e17