Blue Jackets, Flames honor Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau one year after passing
Both the Columbus Blue Jackets and Calgary Flames have announced donations to honor the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau on the one-year anniversary of their tragic deaths.
The Blue Jackets, along with the NHL, are donating $13,000 and $21,000 (13 for Johnny and 21 for Matthew, respectively) to the John and Matthew Foundation.
Matthew’s widow, Madeline, as well as Johnny’s widow, Meredith, officially launched the John and Matthew Foundation back in March before publicly announcing it on ABC’s Good Morning America on August 12 – Johnny’s 32nd birthday.
“John and Matty made a tremendous and everlasting impact on everyone who knew them,” a statement on the foundation’s website says. “In addition to their hockey talents, the boys were known for their kindness. The Foundation’s purpose is to continue giving back to what the boys are passionate about and to ultimately continue to make a positive impact on the world in their honor.”
Calgary, meanwhile, has donated $34,000 (combining 13 and 21) to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in Canada.
The brothers were killed on Aug. 29, 2024 after they were struck by an alleged drunk driver while bicycling in New Jersey. The driver has been charged with two counts of death by an automobile.’
Forever in our hearts ❤️💙 pic.twitter.com/eZNVtku5nL
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) August 29, 2025Both teams published tributes for the Gaudreaus, with the Blue Jackets posting a heartfelt video commemorating Johnny’s two-year stint with the team.
The Flames posted a graphic showcasing highlights from Johnny’s career, with a shot including the two brothers together.
You’re always in our hearts, Johnny and Matthew ❤️
Today, and every day, we remember and celebrate your lives and the impact you had on everyone you met. We miss you.
The @FlamesFdn is supporting the work of The John And Matthew Gaudreau Foundation with a $34,000 donation. pic.twitter.com/sqKoDEaIsw
USA Hockey was among the many organizations that honored Johnny Gaudreau throughout the 2024-25 season. Minutes after beating Switzerland 1-0 in overtime to win the 2025 IIHF Men’s World Hockey Championship, the team’s leadership group honored their friend by placing a team jersey with Gaudreau’s name and No. 13 on top of the trophy to kick off the celebration.