Calgary Flames issue update on Johnny Gaudreau memorial at Saddledome

In a press release this morning, the Flames explained today marked the end of their 13 days dedicated to sudden loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.

The Flames aren't just throwing items in the trash and cleaning up though, they're doing some amazing things with the items fans left there. Memorial benches for the Gaudreau brothers will be made out of hockey sticks. Jerseys and stuffed animals will be donated to local charities. Fans left Skittles behind as a memory of Johnny Gaudreau's favourite snack, and the Calgary Flames will match that amount with a donation to the food bank - the skittles that have been sitting outside will be thrown out, of course. The written messages in chalk have been extensively photographed and will be remembered forever by Flames and hockey fans.

It's tough to see the memorial go, but it is a reality of life going on. It's great to see the organization take thoughtful action as to where the memorial items would go.

The shocking loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau is still felt by so many hockey fans, and so deeply within the Gaudreau family. The entire hockey community has been grieving for the Gaudreau's since the tragedy occurred, and it will certainly continue with tributes throughout this season and for years to come.