Ron Duguay, a former New York Rangers forward known for his skating flair and off-ice charisma, died at 69 after a long battle with colon cancer, with news shared by his girlfriend Sarah Palin.

Duguay played 864 NHL games over 12 seasons, scoring 274 goals and 346 assists for 620 points, with his best season in 1984-85 (89 points) for the Detroit Red Wings.

Duguay’s daughter Shay Thomas shared a hospital photo and a video showing him walking with assistance, as the family publicly appealed for prayers and support via a GoFundMe started in early 2025.

Entertainment Weekly and People tributes accompany the report, which notes a celebration of life planned for a later date.

Updates before his death included an August hospital video showing him smiling and joking, illustrating the family's hopeful approach and prayer appeal.

The report appears as an obituary notice announcing Duguay’s death.

Us Magazine covered the relationship, prayers for Duguay, and health updates referenced in the report.

No additional biographical details about career milestones, teams, or cause of death are provided beyond the basic obituary.

Family disclosures indicate Duguay was considering overseas treatments in countries like Germany, Russia, and Mexico, with estimated costs between $40,000 and $50,000 per program.

He planned to continue methylene blue periodically and maintain ongoing medical travel for treatment.

Funeral arrangements had not been announced at the time of the report.

The hockey community continues to remember his contributions to New York and the Rangers, with memorial plans pending.