Katie Gaudreau is a doting aunt to her late brother Matthew’s son, Tripp.
“Tripp Matthew. 🤍🦋,” Katie captioned a photograph of her holding child Tripp — whom Matthew’s widow, Madeline, welcomed in December — shared through Instagram on Saturday, February 1.
“I like you eternally and ever. We’re so fortunate to have our little piece of heaven on earth. You look an increasing number of like your dad on daily basis. Phrases can’t start to specific how a lot I like you 🤍,” Katie continued within the caption.
Madeline welcomed her and Matthew’s first child after her husband’s tragic dying in August 2024, only a day earlier than Katie’s wedding ceremony.
“Tripp Matthew 🤍🦋,” Madeline wrote through Instagram on Sunday, December 29, welcoming the new child. “Mommy & Daddy’s world.” Her publish included a snap of Madeline holding the new child’s tiny hand, alongside a small signal that reads, “He’s right here.” She additionally tagged Matthew within the publish.
Matthew and his brother, NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, had been struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver whereas biking close to their New Jersey hometown in August. Matthew was 29, and Johnny was 31.
Madeline and Matthew had been collectively for almost 15 years and married for 3 earlier than his premature dying.
In September 2024, a pregnant Madeline gave a transferring eulogy to her husband at a memorial service for her late husband.
“This final week has felt like I’ve been trapped in a nightmare I can’t get up from,” Madeline mentioned. “I really feel numb, offended, unhappy, blessed suddenly. Some days, the considered this new actuality is debilitating, however largely I simply miss Matt.”
Madeline tearfully mentioned she is aware of “Matt will encompass his son for the remainder of his life.” She added, “I’m so grateful God gave us a baby, a little bit Matty, to run round for all times, to hold on his legacy. Tripp will know the way a lot his father cherished him, and I promise to do all of the issues with him we talked about.”
On the finish of the emotional tribute, Madeline inspired folks to not drink and drive. “Name a journey. Please don’t put one other household via this torture,” she urged.
Matthew’s brother, Johnny, was additionally anticipating his third little one when he died. His widow, Meredith, celebrated her child bathe on Sunday, February 2.