Ron Duguay, Sarah Palin's boyfriend and hockey legend, dies at 69
The former NHL player died after a battle with colon cancer, Sarah Palin announced.
Ron Duguay, a former NHL player and boyfriend of Sarah Palin, has died at the age of 69. Palin, the former Alaska governor and vice-presidential candidate, announced his death on social media on Thursday, stating, "It's with a shattered heart, but also deep peace knowing Ron is with Jesus now. He fought so hard. Love never ends."
Duguay was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in December 2024, which later spread to his liver. He played 12 seasons in the NHL from 1977 to 1989, most notably with the New York Rangers and Detroit Red Wings. The Rangers organization issued a statement mourning the loss of Duguay, calling him "one of the most popular players in franchise history."
In October, Palin asked for prayers for Duguay on Instagram. His daughter, Shay Thomas, also shared a plea for prayers, explaining that her father had been unable to work due to his illness and that his treatment had been costly. A GoFundMe page was established to help support his medical expenses.
Duguay was hospitalized in July after fainting at his home, an incident that led to the discovery of severe complications tied to his cancer, including varices, portal hypertensive gastropathy, internal bleeding, and an ulcer. His daughter explained that the pressure from the cancer in his liver, combined with treatments, had caused internal bleeding.
While Duguay and Palin were often seen together, and she visited him during his illness, they never publicly confirmed their relationship status. Duguay had previously discussed his close relationship with Palin and her family, noting that he helped with landscaping and snow removal at her home. He also mentioned being unable to visit as often due to his health and Palin's obligations caring for her son, Trig.
Duguay, drafted 13th overall by the Rangers in 1977, recorded 216 goals and 320 assists for 536 career points in over 860 NHL appearances. He also had a 12-year career as an in-studio analyst for MSG Network's coverage of the Rangers before leaving in 2018.