Matthew Gaudreau and wife Madeline. Image via: mogaudreau/ InstagramMatthew Gaudreau is at the heart of an emotional tribute from his wife, Madeline Gaudreau, nearly two years after the former hockey player was killed in a devastating tragedy. Just weeks before the second anniversary of his death, Madeline shared a heartfelt message and cherished wedding memories, offering another glimpse into the love story that continues to resonate across the hockey community.Madeline Gaudreau shares emotional message before Matthew Gaudreau’s second death anniversaryOn Monday, Aug. 3, Madeline posted a black-and-white photo from their July 2021 wedding on Instagram Stories alongside the words, "You gave me the best life. We miss you." She followed it with another image of the couple smiling together, reminding friends and supporters that Matthew's memory continues to shape her family's daily life.Madeline Gaudreau shares emotional message for Matthew Gaudreau. Image via: mogaudreau/ InstagramMadeline has consistently found meaningful ways to honor her late husband since his death in August 2024. Ahead of the first anniversary of the tragedy, she shared a photo embracing Johnny Gaudreau's widow, Meredith, with the simple caption, "My everything." Months later, after welcoming her and Matthew's son, Tripp Matthew Gaudreau, she introduced him to the world by writing, "Mommy & Daddy's world."When Tripp celebrated his first birthday, Madeline reflected on the similarities between father and son. "I see your daddy in your smile, in your strength, your laugh, and in the light you bring into this world," she wrote. During a later appearance on Good Morning America, she admitted it remained "heartbreaking" watching their son reach milestones without Matthew beside them, adding that he had always dreamed of becoming a father.How did Matthew Gaudreau die?Matthew, 29, and his older brother, Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau, were riding bicycles in New Jersey while attending their sister's wedding festivities on Aug. 29, 2024, when they were struck by an alleged drunk driver. Prosecutors say the accused later pleaded not guilty, rejected a plea agreement, and continues to await trial after a judge denied motions to dismiss or reduce the charges.The loss devastated one of hockey's most beloved families and sent shockwaves throughout the NHL. Meredith Gaudreau was pregnant with the couple's third child at the time, while Madeline was expecting her first baby with Matthew. Both women have since worked to preserve the brothers' legacy through public tributes and the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, established in March 2025.Matthew and Madeline’s love story continues through their familyMatthew and Madeline first met as teenagers in Omaha after the hockey player moved there to pursue junior hockey. Their relationship survived years of long distance while Matthew played college hockey in Boston, eventually leading to a proposal in Avalon, New Jersey, in 2019. They married in July 2021 at The Grove at Centerton in Pittsgrove, beginning what Madeline would later describe as the "best 14 years of my life."Although Matthew never got the chance to meet his son, his legacy continues through Tripp, who recently stepped onto the ice for his first hockey class, and through nephew Matthew Guy Joyce, named in his honor. As another anniversary approaches, Madeline's latest tribute serves as a reminder that while time has passed, the bond they built continues to shape every milestone their growing family celebrates.