Matthew Gaudreau's pregnant wife Madeline pays heartfelt tribute on his first birthday since tragic death

OLDMANS TOWNSHIP, NEW JERSEY: Madeline Gaudreau, the widow of former hockey star Matthew Gaudreau, shared an emotional Instagram tribute on what would have been her husband’s 30th birthday.

This marks the first birthday since Matthew and his brother, 11-year NHL veteran Johnny Gaudreau, were tragically killed by an alleged drunk driver in August.

Madeline Gaudreau's tribute to her late husband Matthew Gaudreau

Accompanying a photo of the couple gazing lovingly at each other, Madeline wrote, “Happy Birthday to the best husband and father the moment I met you I instantly knew you were the one."

"As I celebrate you today (and every day) I am more and more in love with you and honored to be your wife,” she shared.

She also included a note for Matthew’s late brother Johnny as she wrote, “John better have friends playing all day, double stuff Oreos and a nice glass of whiskey for you."

"I love you and can’t wait to kiss your face again,” Madeline concluded the tribute to Matthew whom she married in 2021.

Madeline Gaudreau's new life amid grief

Madeline is currently pregnant with the couple’s first child, Tripp, and recently celebrated her baby shower in October.

Photos from the event showed a gathering full of love and support, with Madeline thanking her friends and family for helping her honor Matthew’s memory.

“Baby Shower of my Dreams,” she captioned the post on October 13, crediting her loved ones for making the day special.

“The way you were able to tie in my husband brought instant tears when I walked in,” she shared.

Madeline also reflected on her future son’s life without his father and uncle.

“Nothing [will] bring his dad back, [or] Uncle John back, but I am glad he has so many amazing people around him to remind him how amazing they were,” she added.

Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau's tragic accident

Matthew and Johnny Gaudreau, 31, were struck and killed on the evening of August 29 in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, while cycling.

The brothers were in town for their sister Katie Gaudreau’s wedding, which was scheduled for the next day, August 30, as per People.

Both were set to serve as groomsmen in the ceremony, which was postponed after the tragic accident.

According to New Jersey State Police, the driver, Sean M Higgins, was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and attempting to pass another car when he hit the brothers.