Updated: October 23, 2026
Hockey fans and celebrity watchers have long been curious about Ron Duguay’s personal life. The charismatic former New York Rangers star, known for his flowing hair and electric presence on the ice, passed away on October 22, 2026, at age 69 after a courageous battle with stage 4 colon cancer. At the center of the tributes was his girlfriend of four years, former Alaska Governor and 2008 vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin. Their relationship offered a quiet, supportive chapter in the final years of a life lived largely in the spotlight.
Here is a clear look at the woman by his side and the story they shared.
Table of Contents
Who Was Ron Duguay?
Ron Duguay was more than a hockey player. Drafted by the New York Rangers in 1977, the Sudbury, Ontario native became a fan favorite during the late 1970s and early 1980s. He played 864 NHL games across stints with the Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings, racking up 274 goals and 346 assists. His signature long hair and stylish skating made him a Madison Square Garden icon and a regular in New York nightlife circles.
After retiring, he stayed connected to the game as a broadcaster and coach. Off the ice he was known for high-profile relationships earlier in life, including marriages to models Robin Bobo and Kim Alexis. He is survived by three children—daughters Shay Thomas and Amber Stavros, and son Noah—and several grandchildren.
How Ron Duguay and Sarah Palin Began Their Relationship
Duguay and Palin started dating in 2022. What began as friendship turned romantic after Palin reached out to him for advice during her defamation lawsuit against The New York Times. They were first spotted together in Manhattan and later appeared at public events, including a 2022 rally in Anchorage.
The pairing surprised some observers. Duguay lived primarily in Florida while Palin remained based in Alaska, making theirs a long-distance relationship. Yet both described a genuine connection rooted in shared values, faith, and mutual support. Palin later called him a steady presence, and Duguay’s family publicly praised her willingness to drop everything and fly across the country when needed.
Standing Together During His Cancer Battle
Duguay was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in late 2024. The disease later spread to his liver. His family kept the news relatively private until early 2026, when they launched a GoFundMe to help cover travel and treatment costs as he flew regularly between Florida and California for care.
Throughout the ordeal, Sarah Palin remained a constant source of support. She visited him in the hospital, held his hand during difficult days, and asked the public for prayers in the final week of his life. Just days before his death she shared a photo of their joined hands from his bedside. On October 22, 2026, she announced his peaceful passing with the words: “It’s with a shattered heart, but also deep peace knowing Ron is with Jesus now. He fought so hard. Love never ends.”
His daughters also shared moving tributes, noting the outpouring of love from fans and the hockey community.
Quick Facts About Ron Duguay and His Girlfriend
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Partner | Sarah Palin |
| Relationship Start | 2022 |
| Duration | Approximately 4 years |
| Ron Duguay’s Age at Death | 69 (July 6, 1957 – October 22, 2026) |
| Cause of Death | Stage 4 colon cancer |
| Previous Marriages | Robin Bobo; Kim Alexis (divorced 2016) |
| Children | Shay, Amber, Noah |
| Notable Teams | New York Rangers (primary) |
Key points about their bond:
- Long-distance but deeply supportive
- Rooted in friendship that grew into romance
- Palin was present during medical treatments and final days
- Shared public moments at events and private strength during illness
Conclusion
Ron Duguay girlfriend, Sarah Palin, stood by him through the toughest chapter of his life. Their four-year relationship showed a quieter, more grounded side of a man once known for flash and celebrity. From the ice rinks of the NHL to the final hospital days, Duguay lived with energy and heart. Those who loved him—family, fans, and Sarah Palin—now remember a fighter who left a lasting mark on hockey and those closest to him.
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