Sarah Palin Mourns Death of Boyfriend Ron Duguay at 69
Former Alaska governor announced the passing of the hockey legend after a battle with colon cancer.
Ron Duguay, former hockey player and boyfriend of former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, has died at the age of 69. Palin announced his death on social media 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. His daughter, Shay Thomas, had previously shared a public plea for prayers for her father in February, noting that his illness had impacted his ability to work and that they had established a GoFundMe to support his treatment.
Earlier in his treatment, Duguay was hospitalized in July after a fall at his home resulted in severe facial injuries. Subsequent medical tests revealed complications related to his cancer, including varices, portal hypertensive gastropathy, internal bleeding, and an ulcer. His daughter explained that the cancer in his liver, combined with the toll of surgery, chemotherapy, and a hepatic pump, had caused dangerous pressure buildup and internal bleeding.
Duguay played 12 seasons in the NHL from 1977 to 1989, most notably with the New York Rangers and Detroit Red Wings. He was drafted 13th overall by the Rangers in 1977 and became a fan favorite, accumulating 216 goals and 320 assists over his career. He retired from professional hockey with over 860 appearances for the Rangers, Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings. After his playing career, Duguay worked as an in-studio analyst for MSG Network's coverage of the Rangers for 12 years before leaving in 2018.
Palin and Duguay had been linked since 2022, and she was frequently seen by his side during his illness. While they never publicly confirmed their relationship status, they spoke about their closeness in an interview with the Daily Mail earlier this year. Duguay mentioned assisting Palin with landscaping and snow removal, which led to him being present at her home in October when he began feeling unwell.