Sarah Palin, former Alaska governor and Republican vice presidential nominee, announced Thursday the death of her longtime companion, Ron Duguay. Duguay, a former National Hockey League (NHL) player and beloved New York Rangers star, was 69 years old and had been battling Stage 4 colon cancer. Palin, 62, shared the news on social media, expressing both heartbreak and peace regarding his passing.
"It’s with a shattered heart, but also deep peace knowing Ron is with Jesus now. He fought so hard. Love never ends." Sarah Palin, Former Alaska Governor and Republican Vice Presidential Nominee
Duguay's professional hockey career spanned 12 seasons, beginning when the New York Rangers selected him as the 13th overall pick in the 1977 NHL draft. Known for his distinctive skating style, flowing hair, and commanding presence, he quickly became a fan favorite at Madison Square Garden. During his time with the Rangers, Duguay reached his scoring peak in the 1981-82 season, tallying a career-high 40 goals. Beyond the Rangers, he also skated for the Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings. His career totals included 216 goals, 320 assists, and 536 points over more than 860 games.
Following the news of his death, the New York Rangers organization issued a statement mourning the loss. "The New York Rangers organization mourns the loss of Ron Duguay, one of the most popular players in franchise history," the statement read. It continued, "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. We join the hockey community in sending our condolences to Ron’s friends, family, and loved ones during this difficult time."
After retiring from professional play, Duguay transitioned into broadcasting, spending 12 years as a Rangers studio analyst for MSG Network before departing in 2018. His post-playing career kept him connected to the sport and the fan base that had admired him on the ice.
Duguay received a diagnosis of advanced colon cancer in December 2024. The disease later metastasized to his liver, leading to a series of severe complications. He underwent multiple hospitalizations, including an emergency in July when he fainted at home, resulting in a facial injury. Examinations by doctors revealed internal bleeding, an ulcer, and elevated pressure in the blood vessels supplying the liver. His rigorous treatment regimen included chemotherapy, surgery, and the use of a hepatic pump. Surgeons also removed his gallbladder and appendix as part of his comprehensive care plan.
The extensive medical treatments incurred significant costs, prompting Duguay's family to initiate a GoFundMe campaign to help offset the expenses. His daughter, Shay Thomas, explained the necessity of the fundraiser, stating, "Because of his cancer, he hasn’t been able to work the way he normally would." Thomas also detailed the family's decision to seek treatment closer to home after a previous care experience in Florida nearly proved fatal. "Earlier in his treatment journey, the care he received in Florida nearly cost him his life. That led us to bring him to Orange County, where my sister and I live, so he could receive treatment here," she said.
Earlier this month, Shay Thomas publicly requested prayers for her father on social media, tagging relatives and expressing the family's urgent need for support. "I wasn’t planning on posting anything. but I believe in the power of prayer, and right now, we need all the prayers we can get. And I know so many love him so much. Please keep our dad in your prayers," she wrote. Palin also made a public appeal for prayers on October 18, four days prior to announcing his death, sharing a photograph of her hand clasped around Duguay’s in a hospital bed. She spent much of his final decline at his bedside.
Palin and Duguay had been romantically linked since 2022, though they never formally defined their relationship. Shay Thomas described them as "very close" earlier this year, noting that Duguay's medical treatments and Palin's responsibilities caring for her son, Trig, limited the time they could spend together. Duguay's passing marks the end of a life that spanned professional sports, broadcasting, and personal partnership, leaving a legacy remembered by fans and loved ones alike.
