In an emotional and heartwarming announcement, Meredith Gaudreau, wife of late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, has welcomed their third child just months after her husband’s tragic death. On April 1, 2025, Meredith gave birth to a beautiful baby boy named Carter Michael Gaudreau, honoring Johnny’s memory in a touching tribute.

A Tribute to His Late Father

Sharing the joyful yet bittersweet news on Instagram, Meredith revealed that their son’s name holds deep meaning, paying tribute to Johnny.

“I had our third baby! 4/1/25. Another baby boy,” Meredith lovingly shared. “Carter Michael Gaudreau — same middle name as his daddy. 8lb 3 ounces, 20.5 inches — exactly the same as his daddy. He looks exactly like his daddy, too.”

The heartfelt message continued with an emotional vow to her newborn son:

“I love you so much my baby! We are going to have so much fun. I can’t wait to give you the best life, my special boy forever.”

Meredith accompanied her announcement with tender photos, including a touching image of Carter dressed in a cream-colored outfit adorned with the word “Daddy,” further emphasizing the special bond between father and son.

Fans and Family Share Support and Love

Following the announcement, fans of the Gaudreau family took to social media to express their heartfelt congratulations and support for Meredith during this emotional time.

One fan commented:

“Meredith, your strength knows no bounds. What a blessing Carter Michael is.”

Another wrote:

“This is so touching and beautiful. Sending you all so much love.”

Others highlighted how proud Johnny would undoubtedly be:

“Beautiful boy. His dad is beaming from above.”

Overcoming Tragedy with Strength

Johnny Gaudreau, an NHL star for the Columbus Blue Jackets, tragically passed away alongside his brother Michael in a devastating accident on August 28, 2024. The brothers were struck and killed by a suspected impaired driver while biking together. The investigation into their deaths remains ongoing, and the driver faces charges of death by auto.

At the emotional memorial service held on September 9, 2024, Meredith bravely announced that she and Johnny had been expecting another child:

“John and I had the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the best six months of my life,” she said. “There’s specifically one week that I will cherish forever—it will be my favorite week of my life out of those six months. We’re actually a family of five. I’m in my ninth week of pregnancy with our third baby.”

Welcoming New Life Amid Loss

Carter’s birth brings renewed joy and hope into the lives of Meredith and her family, even as they continue to mourn Johnny’s loss. Additionally, Carter’s arrival comes just three months after Johnny’s brother Matthew and his wife Madeline welcomed their own child, signaling a poignant moment of new life and love amid the family’s grief.

Meredith’s journey forward, guided by love for her children and the enduring memory of Johnny, serves as a powerful testament to resilience, strength, and the ability to find joy even in times of immense sadness.

Friends, fans, and family continue to support Meredith as she embraces her new chapter, honoring Johnny Gaudreau’s legacy through the joy and hope their newest family member represents.