The Flames update: What will happen to the Gaudreau memorial in front of the Scotiabank Saddle dome?

The Calgary Flames have declared that they will ‘commence the careful removal of all memorial objects placed by fans to demonstrate support for the Gaudreau family after the conclusion of the 13-day dedicatory period,’ in front of the Scotiabank Saddledome.

“A wide range of items were placed in remembrance of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, including jerseys, hockey sticks, flowers, purple sports drinks, and Skittles,” a news release from the Calgary Flames announced on Monday morning.

According to the organization, numerous options exist for the different keepsakes placed in front of the arena.

Regarding signs, messaging, and chalk, the location was stated to have been precisely photographed, including all chalk drawings, posters, signs, personal writings, and messages.

“The photographs will be provided to the Gaudreau family as an everlasting digital memory book from Flames fans.”

Hockey stick benches will be made to collect money for local charity. Plaques explaining the benches’ provenance will include “In memory of Johnny & Matthew Gaudreau.”

“The edible goods no longer fit for human consumption will be counted, and the Calgary Flames Foundation will make a comparable financial commitment to the Calgary Food Bank. The plastic beverage containers will be emptied and donated to the KidSport Calgary recycling program. The program turns empty into sports chances for local youngsters in need, the access to sports.”

Stuffed toys and toys made of cloth and cotton, such as Teddy Bears, will be donated to Parachutes for Pets, a charity supported by Mikael Backlund and Mackenzie Weegar.

“These will be used for the Lily and Dexter’ Legacy program – a groundbreaking program ensuring children in care can stay with their pets by providing essential support such as leashes, collars, vet care, vaccines, and licensing, created by the Backlund family.”

Jerseys will be cleaned and used to design blankets distributed to local charitable organizations. All organics will be collected and put to compost. Soil from the flowers will be placed in the earth at community park(s) around the city. The remaining items will be assessed following the sorting process.

“The Calgary Flames deeply appreciate the care and concern displayed by Flames fans and the entire community over this difficult period. The outpouring of love and support has been incredibly comforting.”

On August 30, the sports world was devastated by the news of the deaths of former Calgary Flames player Johnny Gaudreau (31) and his younger brother Matthew (29).

The brothers were murdered in a collision when they were struck by a vehicle as they were on their bicycles in late August in Salem County, New Jersey. It has since been claimed that the driver of the automobile that struck the men was allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

The Calgary Flames selected Gaudreau in the fourth round, 104th overall, of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. His younger brother Matthew played for the Reading Royals of the ECHL (small professional ice hockey league in New Jersey). Gaudreau spent nine seasons with the Flames from 2013-14 to 2021-22.

In July 2022, Gaudreau issued a letter to the city of Calgary and its hockey supporters upon the announcement that he will leaving the club to play with the Columbus Blue Jackets. At the end of his letter, Gaudreau implored supporters to remember him as more than a hockey player.

“I hope the people of Calgary may remember me not only as a hockey player but also as a nice guy with excellent morals. Thank you for supporting me throughout these years and making my family a part of yours. I feel extremely happy to having been raised up in the Calgary Flames Organization. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”