Ron Duguay, Hockey Icon and Pop Culture Figure, Dies at 69
Celebrity chef Andrew Molen mourns the loss of his best friend, Ron Duguay, remembering him as a mentor and a legend whose influence extended far beyond the ice.
Ron Duguay, a former New York Rangers star and a prominent figure who bridged the worlds of sports and pop culture, has died at the age of 69. His death on Thursday followed a battle with colon cancer.
Molen, a chef whose career includes stints at notable establishments like Restaurant Gordon Ramsay at The London Hotel and The Plaza Food Hall, expressed profound grief over the loss of Duguay, whom he considered both a close friend and a mentor. "I am completely heartbroken by this news. Having known him my entire life, he wasn’t just one of my best friends — he was my mentor," Molen told The Post.
Their bond, forged over years of shared experiences, was deep. Molen recalled introducing Duguay to tequila, a moment that Duguay embraced, and spoke of being present when Duguay met Sarah Palin, his girlfriend and former vice presidential candidate. "He was so incredibly excited to meet her, and I am so grateful that she was such a beautiful, supportive part of his life right until the very end," Molen said.
Molen’s connection to the Rangers and Duguay was influenced by his mother, Sanda, who owned popular New York establishments Tatou and Swells. This family background helped solidify his lifelong relationship with Duguay and the team.
Duguay, an NHL All-Star during the 1981-82 season, recorded 340 points (164 goals, 176 assists) in eight seasons with the Rangers, concluding his 12-year NHL career with 620 points. He also served as an analyst for MSG Network from 2007 to 2018, reaching a younger generation of fans.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Duguay was known for his presence at the intersection of sports and popular culture, appearing in commercials and frequenting places like Studio 54. His life was characterized by his extensive network of celebrity friends and relationships, extending his influence far beyond the hockey rink.
Molen also emphasized Duguay's personal qualities, particularly his strong family ties. "Beyond the public eye, I always loved how remarkably close and tightly knit his family is," Molen stated. "Seeing how fiercely supportive they were, standing by his side with so much love all the way until the end, was a true testament to the man he was."
"He was a living legend, and though he is gone, he will never be forgotten. His unwavering dedication to his family, his beloved New York Rangers, and all of his friends is what made him the truly great man he was. I am so incredibly proud to have called him my friend. Rest in peace, legend!" Molen added.