Johnny Gaudreau’s wife posts on social media for the first time since his death – National

Johnny Gaudreau’s wife paid tribute to her late husband in a pair of social media posts Saturday, speaking out for the first time since the former Flames forward’s death.

Meridith Gaudreau shared family photos of Gaudreau in two separate Instagram posts, where she praised him for being the “best dad” to their one-year-old daughter Noa and six-month-old son Johnny. In another post, she thanked her late husband for the best years of her life, calling herself the luckiest girl in the world for the time they had together.

“I love you so, so much. You were perfect. Some days it was too good to be true. I love every single thing about you. You are my forever and I can’t wait to be with you again. I love you so much forever and ever,” she said in a post accompanied by many photos of the family.

“The best dad in the world. So caring and loving. The best partner to spend time with parents. John never missed a single appointment. He was the best at putting the baby and the apple of Noa’s eye to sleep. I love how much she looks like him. We are going to make you proud. We love you so, so, so much dad.”

Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were both tragically killed by an alleged drunk driver, just one day before the duo were to be best men at their sister’s wedding.

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The brothers were riding their bikes Thursday night near their childhood home in New Jersey when they were struck from behind by the driver, who is now charged in their deaths.

Flames fans, many wearing Gaudreau’s jersey, continued to pay tribute to Gaudreau by placing jerseys and caps on the steps of the Scotiabank Saddledome. Others placed Skittles and purple Gatorade bottles, Gaudreau’s favourite snacks.

Kimberly Brass, a die-hard Flames fan who said she was hit hard by the news, was still visibly emotional Saturday as she paid tribute.

“He brought so much happiness to the Calgary Flames,” she said. “It’s really heartbreaking to see.”

Young Flames fan Dominic Primeau paid tribute to Gaudreau at the Dome on Saturday, wearing his autographed jersey, saying he grew up watching his idol play hockey. He was emotional as he shared his love for the player.

“It’s a real shock for me. At first I couldn’t believe it when my parents told me,” he said.

“I know Johnny is loved. I’m proud that everyone is here to support him.”

Flames season ticket holder Tessa Macarthur paid tribute Saturday, saying it felt like a bad dream.

“He was such an exciting player to watch and it’s sad to see him and his brother leave this earth at such a young age,” she told Global News.

Authorities have charged Sean Higgins, 43, of New Jersey, with two counts of vehicular manslaughter.

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