Johnny Gaudreau, the beloved NHL star known as “Johnny Hockey,” left an indelible mark on the ice and in the hearts of fans worldwide. Tragically, his life was cut short in August 2024 when he and his brother Matthew died in a biking accident caused by a drunk driver. At the time, Gaudreau was 31, and his family was already growing, with his wife Meredith pregnant with their third child. This heartbreaking event thrust the Gaudreau family into the spotlight, highlighting their resilience amid profound loss.
Meredith Gaudreau, who shared glimpses of their family life on social media, welcomed their third baby in April 2025, just seven months after Johnny Gaudreau’s death. The couple’s children—Noa, Johnny Jr., and Carter—represent the enduring legacy of a man celebrated for his skill, humility, and devotion to family. As of February 2026, these young ones are navigating life under the care of their mother, supported by extended family and the hockey community.
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The Gaudreau Kids: Names and Ages
The eldest child, Noa Harper Gaudreau, was born on September 30, 2022. Now three years old, Noa is the only daughter in the family and has been described in family posts as a bundle of energy and joy. Meredith often shared moments of Noa playing with her siblings, showcasing the close-knit dynamic the Gaudreaus cherished. At such a tender age, Noa has already become a symbol of the family’s strength, with tributes to her father frequently mentioning how Johnny doted on her.
Next is Johnny Edward Gaudreau, affectionately known as Johnny Jr., born on February 22, 2024. Turning two years old in 2026, this little boy carries his father’s name and, according to family updates, shares many of Johnny’s traits. Born just months before the tragedy, Johnny Jr.’s arrival brought immense happiness to the household. Meredith has noted in interviews how the children help her cope, with Johnny Jr.’s playful nature reminding her of her late husband.
The youngest, Carter Michael Gaudreau, arrived on April 1, 2025, weighing 8 pounds 3 ounces—exactly the same as his father at birth. At ten months old, Carter bears his dad’s middle name, Michael, as a heartfelt tribute. Meredith announced his birth on social media, expressing awe at how much he resembles Johnny, from his features to his measurements. This addition completed the family of five that Meredith and Johnny Gaudreau had envisioned, even as they grieved.
Family Legacy and Resilience
The Gaudreau children’s lives are intertwined with their father’s storied career, from his days at Boston College to his NHL stardom with the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets. Johnny was known for his family-first approach, often prioritizing time with Meredith and the kids over the demands of professional hockey. After his passing, the family received an outpouring of support, including from the NHL, which honored the brothers at games and events.
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Meredith has been vocal about raising the children with memories of their dad, sharing stories of his kindness and humor. The birth of Carter, in particular, brought a mix of sorrow and hope, as it coincided with the family’s ongoing healing process. Extended family, including Matthew’s widow Madeline—who gave birth to their son Tripp in December 2024—has rallied around them, creating a network of love for the next generation.
In the face of unimaginable loss, the Gaudreau kids embody hope and continuity. Noa, Johnny Jr., and Carter’s ages—three, two, and ten months respectively—mark the beginning of their journeys, guided by a mother’s love and a father’s enduring spirit. As time passes, these children will undoubtedly carry forward the values Johnny Gaudreau and instilled, keeping his memory alive in ways both big and small.
