Ron Duguay, Former NHL Player and Public Figure, Dies at 69
The former New York Rangers forward passed away after a battle with cancer, his family announced.
Ron Duguay, a prominent former NHL player known for his nearly 1,000 games played in the league from the late 1970s through the 1980s, has died of cancer. He was 69.
A spokesperson for the New York Rangers confirmed Duguay's death on Thursday, stating that his family had informed the team. Duguay, originally from Sudbury, Ontario, was selected by the Rangers as the 13th overall pick in the 1977 NHL Entry Draft. He played his first six seasons with the team, achieving All-Star status in the 1981-82 season where he played at a point-a-game pace.
Throughout his career, Duguay also played for the Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings, with an additional stint with the Rangers. He concluded his NHL career with 673 points in regular season and playoff games before playing professionally in Germany and the minor leagues.
The New York Rangers organization issued a statement mourning his loss. "Ron’s signature skating style — with his hair flowing as he moved down the ice — captivated the (Madison Square) Garden faithful, and his skill, tenacity and charisma earned him the admiration of all New Yorkers," the team said. "We join the hockey community in sending our condolences to Ron’s friends, family and loved ones during this difficult time."
Later in life, Duguay gained public attention for his relationship with Sarah Palin, the former governor of Alaska and the Republican vice presidential nominee in 2008. Earlier this year, his family initiated a GoFundMe campaign to help cover expenses related to his medical treatments and travel.
Palin shared her grief on social media, writing, "It’s with a shattered heart but also deep peace knowing Ron is with Jesus now. He fought so hard. Love never ends."
The NHL Alumni Association also memorialized Duguay, highlighting his unwavering dedication and passion for hockey. "It was a part of who he was, a lifelong love that he carried with pride and shared so generously with others," the association stated. "He will be remembered not only for the player he was, but for the extraordinary person he was."