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The funeral for hockey players Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew will be held on Monday at Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Media, Pennsylvania. The brothers were tragically killed last week when they were struck by an alleged drunk driver while cycling in New Jersey.
Steve Keeley, a reporter for Fox29, shared the news on X:
“While they are not from the parish, several members of our community are close to their families, so they have requested to have their joint Funeral Mass here.”
The Catholic mass will be streamed live for those unable to attend in person.
Johnny Gaudreau, 31, was a veteran NHL player nicknamed "Johnny Hockey" who played for the Columbus Blue Jackets. His younger brother Matthew, 29, also played professional hockey and was coaching a local team, the West Chester Wolves.
The deaths of the beloved brothers have prompted an immense outpouring of grief and support. Tributes on GoFundMe have amassed more than $560K to aid Matthew's wife who is anticipating the arrival of their child.
NHL Players moved at Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau Vigil at Nationwide Arena
On Wednesday night in Columbus' downtown area at the Nationwide Arena, fans and NHL players gathered for a candlelight vigil to honor and remember the brothers.
Johnny's Columbus Blue Jackets teammates delivered emotional speeches highlighting his incredible talents on the ice and warm, family-oriented spirit off it.
Blue Jackets alternate captain Erik Gudbrandson with his voice shaking said:
"You were one of a kind and we loved you and we still do. You were an amazing father. I remember you complained about a sore back after spending the night in Noah's crib and the pride when you walked Johnny into the room for the first time. To FOX29,
The love for Meredith (Johnny's wife) was a sight to behold - you were truly a family man." he added.
Defenseman Zach Werenski also shared fond memories of Johnny Gaudreau.
"I just wanna say thank you John for choosing Columbus when other people wouldn't. You brought so much joy and excitement to this city I've never quite seen anything like it. Something only truly special players can do and that’s what you were."
The vigil was a testament to the impact the Gaudreau brothers had on and off the ice.
