Former National Hockey League (NHL) forward Ron Duguay, a New York Rangers fan favorite who later drew public attention as the longtime partner of Sarah Palin, died on Oct. 22, following a battle with stage 4 colon cancer. He was 69.
Palin, the former Alaska governor and 2008 Republican vice presidential nominee, confirmed news of his passing in a social media tribute.
“It’s with a shattered heart, but also deep peace knowing Ron is with Jesus now,” she wrote on X. “He fought so hard. Love never ends.”
Born in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, in 1957, Duguay rose through junior hockey before he was selected 13th overall by the Rangers in the 1977 NHL Entry Draft. He quickly became a recognizable figure among New York hockey fans during his early years at Madison Square Garden.
“The New York Rangers organization mourns the loss of Ron Duguay, one of the most popular players in franchise history,” read a statement from the team on X.
“Ron’s signature skating style—with his hair flowing as he moved down the ice—captivated The Garden Faithful, and his skill, tenacity, and charisma earned him the admiration of all New Yorkers.”
One of his most productive campaigns came during the 1981–82 season, when he scored 40 goals and earned an NHL All-Star selection. He also played a significant role in the Rangers’ run to the Stanley Cup Final in 1979, giving him a place in the franchise’s history.
“We join the hockey community in sending our condolences to Ron’s friends, family, and loved ones during this difficult time,” the team concluded.
Over 12 NHL seasons, Duguay appeared in 864 regular-season games, recording 274 goals and 346 assists. His career included stints with the Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings, in addition to his time in New York.
Beyond his playing career, he remained involved in the sport, later working as a hockey analyst for MSG Networks and continuing to participate in events involving former Rangers players.
In 2022, Duguay and Palin went public with their relationship. The pair had initially been connected through a shared interest in hockey, before their friendship developed into a romantic relationship.
Palin, who was previously married to Todd Palin, became a recognizable figure in American conservative politics after joining John McCain’s presidential ticket in 2008.
Duguay was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer in December 2024. The disease subsequently spread, and his family shared updates about the seriousness of his condition as he underwent treatment.
“The outpouring of love and kindness you have shown him has been beyond anything we could have ever imagined. It is a true testament to the incredible man he was and the countless lives he touched,” his family wrote on his GoFundMe page on Thursday.
“Our hearts are shattered, and the world feels a little less bright without him in it. He will be missed by so many, but we find peace in knowing that he is finally free from pain and suffering,” the post continued. “He fought the good fight until his very last breath, and today, Heaven gained a truly special angel.”
Duguay is survived by his three children, Shay Thomas, Amber Stavros, Noah Duguay, and five grandchildren. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
