Jane Gaudreau shared her heartfelt emotions following the birth of her grandson, Tripp, just four months after the tragic death of her son, Matthew Gaudreau. In an Instagram Story on December 29, Jane expressed her overwhelming love and pride for the newborn. “Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop’s hearts are overflowing with love for you, Tripp Matthew,” she wrote, referring to her husband Guy. “We are so incredibly proud of you and your mommy, and I know your Daddy is too! 💙.”
Tripp’s birth was announced by his mother, Madeline Gaudreau, on the same day. She shared the news with an Instagram post that read, “Tripp Matthew 🤍🦋Mommy & Daddy’s world.” Tripp is the first child of Matthew and Madeline, who tied the knot in July 2021.
Matthew, along with his older brother Johnny, tragically lost their lives in a drunk driving accident while cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, on August 30. Johnny was 31 years old, and Matthew was 29 at the time. The loss of both brothers left a deep wound in their family and the community, but it was also a reminder of the enduring legacy that Matthew’s memory would leave behind.
Madeline’s pregnancy was supported by the entire Gaudreau family, with Jane, in particular, playing a major role. At an October baby shower, Jane shared her excitement for the upcoming arrival of Tripp. “Today we celebrated Matty, Madeline, and Tripp at the baby shower,” she posted on Instagram. “I can’t wait to meet you, Tripp Matthew, and tell you all the wonderful stories about your amazing Daddy and Uncle John.💙❤️.” The family had been by Madeline’s side through the pregnancy journey, providing comfort during a difficult time.
Katie Gaudreau, the youngest sister of Matthew and Johnny, also expressed her joy at Tripp’s birth. She shared her excitement in a comment on Madeline’s Instagram post. “Yay!!!!!!!!!!!! Aunt Katie loves you, mommy, and daddy SO much,” she wrote. Katie was set to marry the day after her brothers’ tragic deaths, which added another layer of grief to an already difficult time for the Gaudreau family.
During the baby shower, Madeline’s sister-in-law, Meredith Gaudreau, revealed that she was pregnant with her third child, a bittersweet announcement given the circumstances. Meredith is the wife of Johnny Gaudreau and mother to their two children, Noa, 2, and Johnny, 10 months old. Despite the heartache, the Gaudreau family has remained closely connected, supporting each other through their grief while celebrating the life of new family members like Tripp.
At Matthew’s funeral, Madeline made a poignant promise to their unborn son. “Matt will surround his son for the rest of his life,” she said. “I’m so thankful God gave us a child, a little Matty, to run around for life, to carry on his legacy.” She reassured everyone that Tripp would grow up knowing how much his father loved him, and that she would ensure he experienced all the moments they had once dreamed of together.
December 5 marked what would have been Matthew Gaudreau’s 30th birthday. Madeline commemorated the day with a loving tribute. “Happy Birthday to the best husband and father 🤍,” she posted on Instagram. “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.” Madeline ended the post with a heartfelt message to her late husband, promising to cherish his memory forever.
