Today, August 29, 2025, marks the one year anniversary since the tragic deaths of hockey-playing brothers Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. In honor of their memories and legacies, here are three notes of interest.
1. Gaudreau Foundation
The John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation is dedicated to the brothers’ legacies of caring and giving back to the community, The mission statement of the not-for-profit organization:
- Fund projects that provide ice hockey access and growth opportunities for youths in low-income areas
- support hockey families dealing with personal tragedies, and
- help families that are impacted by drunk driving.
Every contribution, no matter the amount, is greatly appreciated. The Gaudreau Foundation accepts direct donations. Additionally, there is an no-non-profit apparel shop founded by John and Matt’s wives.
Contact info
Email: info@johnandmatty.org
Mailing address: 560 Sylvan Ave, Ste. 3070, Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
2. HBIP Fundrasing Golf Outing
On September 29, 2025, the Columbus chapter of the not-for-profit Hockey Players in Business (HPIB) organization will hold a fundraising golf outing and online 50/50 raffle. Proceeds benefit the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation.
The HPIB golf outing will be held at Jefferson Country Club in Blacklick, Ohio (9:00 a.m. EDT to 5:00 p.m. EDT). The online raffle is open to the public. Bidding items include an autographed Wayne Gretzky jersey (already professionally framed). a hockey stick signed by the 2024-25 Columbus Blue Jackets players, a Mathieu Olivier autographed photo and puck, and more.
3. Calgary Flames Tribute
Johhny Gaudreau’s greatest NHL success, of course, came during his years with the Calgary Flames. Later, he signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Originally, the brothers hailed from Gloucester County, New Jersey. Those three communities were all deeply shaken by the horrific events that happened one year ago today. Actually, the entire hockey world was shaken to its core.
Wins and losses in hockey games and the team jersey a player wears become utterly meaningless where human life itself is concerned. As a community of hockey players, coaches, fans, and citizens in a society, the only way to deal with such a tragedy is to support one another on an ongoing basis. Hockey loyalties are one thing. Basic humanity is something else entirely, and far more important.
If you’ve never seen the Calgary Flames tribute to the Gaudreau brothers from this past season, please take a few minutes and watch it. It’s extremely moving.
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God bless the memories of the Gaudreau brothers. And may Sean Higgins rot for taking the brothers from their wives, families and hockey world.