NEW YORK, N.Y. (THECOUNT) — Ron Duguay, the former NHL star who played for the New York Rangers and other professional hockey teams before becoming known for his relationship with former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, has died at 69 following a battle with stage 4 colon cancer.
Palin announced Duguay’s death Thursday, Oct. 22, in an emotional social media tribute. She said he died peacefully after a hard-fought battle with cancer and that a celebration of life would be announced at a later date.
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“It’s with a shattered heart, but also deep peace knowing Ron is with Jesus now,” Palin wrote. “He fought so hard. Love never ends.”
Palin had asked followers to pray for Duguay earlier in the week, sharing a photograph of the couple holding hands beside his hospital bed as his condition deteriorated.
Duguay was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in late 2024. The disease reportedly spread to his liver, appendix and gallbladder. His treatment included surgery to remove his appendix and gallbladder, along with continuing cancer care in California.
His daughters, Shay Thomas and Amber Stavros, organized a fundraiser earlier this year to help pay for medical treatment and frequent travel between the family’s home in Florida and treatment facilities in California. Duguay had largely kept his illness private before his family publicly shared details of his diagnosis.
Born in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, Duguay rose to prominence after the Rangers selected him with the 13th overall pick in the 1977 NHL draft. His flowing hair, distinctive skating style and charismatic personality helped make him a fan favorite during his years in New York.
Duguay played six seasons during his first stint with the Rangers and was named an NHL All-Star after recording 40 goals during the 1981-82 season. He later played for the Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins and Los Angeles Kings, along with returning to New York for another stint. He also played professionally in Germany and in the minor leagues.
After his playing career, Duguay moved into coaching and broadcasting, including work as a hockey analyst for the Rangers. His career spanned nearly two decades across professional hockey leagues.
Duguay and Palin were romantically linked in 2022 after connecting through their shared interest in hockey. Palin, the former Alaska governor and 2008 Republican vice presidential nominee, remained by his side during his cancer battle.
Duguay is survived by his three children: daughters Shay and Amber and son Noah Duguay. His family has not yet announced details of the planned celebration of life.
Sudbury, Duguay’s hometown in Ontario, Canada, is a northern Ontario community with a long hockey tradition. His professional career later made him a recognizable figure among New York Rangers fans and throughout the NHL.
Google Maps: Sudbury, Ontario, Canada (Duguay’s hometown; not the reported location of his death).
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