Matthew Gaudreau’s Family: What to Know About the Late Hockey Player’s Wife Madeline and Son Tripp

Matthew Gaudreau’s wife, Madeline, has recently embraced motherhood following the tragic death of her husband, a former player for the Columbus Blue Jackets. This poignant chapter in her life began nearly four months after the loss of Matthew and his brother, Johnny Gaudreau, who were killed in a vehicular incident on August 29, 2024. The alleged perpetrator, accused of drunk driving, has since entered a plea of not guilty.

Madeline and Matthew first met in their teenage years in Nebraska, quickly forging a connection that would deepen over the years. Their relationship endured a long-distance phase while Matthew pursued his collegiate hockey career in Boston. They were married on July 10, 2021, marking a significant milestone in their journey together. Reflecting on their time together, Madeline shared on social media in September 2024 that being with Matthew constituted “the best 14 years of my life.”

In December 2024, Madeline welcomed their first child, Tripp Matthew Gaudreau. The birth came at a profoundly emotional time, during a period of mourning for her late husband and the couple’s dreams for their future family together. On an appearance with Good Morning America, Madeline spoke fondly of Matthew, describing him as “a pure, happy, good soul” who inspired her to become a better person.

Madeline Gaudreau has established herself as a dedicated professional alongside navigating her personal life. After graduating from Millard North High School in Omaha, she attended Briar Cliff University, obtaining a degree in business management and marketing in 2016. In August 2022, she took on the role of product manager at CDM Inc., which focuses on the manufacture and distribution of engineered cable assemblies.

The couple’s journey into parenthood was anything but straightforward. Madeline revealed that this was not the first time she had been pregnant. Earlier in the year, they had fortunately conceived but experienced a miscarriage in February. It was only after a second pregnancy that Tripp was born, filling the void left by Matthew’s absence while simultaneously serving as a reminder of the aspirations they shared.

In honour of their husbands, Madeline and Johnny’s widow, Meredith Gaudreau, co-founded a foundation in March 2025, dedicated to supporting initiatives that align with the values their husbands cherished throughout their lives. Named the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, the organisation aims to carry forward their legacy while providing avenues for remembrance and help within the community.

Through her grief, Madeline has proactively sought out ways to keep Matthew’s memory alive. From heartfelt messages shared on social media to meaningful tributes, including a tattoo commemorating their love, she has openly expressed her longing and devotion. As she moves forward with raising their son Tripp, her efforts reflect a deep commitment to honouring both the joy and legacy of her late husband.

As they approach the one-year anniversary of Matthew’s untimely passing, Madeline continues to reflect on the love and joy he brought into her life. In her heartfelt interviews, she emphasises their bond and her desire to pass on Matthew’s values and spirit to their son. With her support network established through family and friends, she navigates the complexities of being a new mother while carrying forward a resilient sense of hope.

In this time of profound loss, Madeline Gaudreau’s journey illustrates the enduring power of love and remembrance. As she embraces her role as a mother, she also steps into her position as a champion of her late husband’s memory, ensuring that both he and his values will forever resonate through their son’s life.