Sarah Palin reduced to tears by Rangers pregame tributes to late boyfriend Ron Duguay after his death
Sarah Palin was reduced to tears as the New York Rangers paid an emotional tribute to her late boyfriend Ron Duguay days after his death.
Duguay died at the age of 69 following a battle with colon cancer. Palin, the former Alaska governor and candidate for Vice President, announced the news on social media last Thursday.
She wrote: ‘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. The cancer later spread to his liver.
Before hosting the Los Angeles Kings at Madison Square Garden on Monday, the Rangers paid tribute on the jumbotron before a moment of silence, followed by raucous cheers.
Later in the game, Duguay’s family – daughters Shay Thomas and Amber Stravros, son Noah Duguay and grandchildren Aidan, Jayden, Cole, Nora and Ranger were brought out for a second tribute video alongside longtime girlfriend Palin.
The New York Rangers paid an emotional tribute to Ron Duguay before their game on Monday
Duguay’s family was all in attendance with Palin seen wiping away tears during the tribute
As the tribute video was shown and the crowd cheered for Duguay, Palin could be seen wiping away tears during a raw and emotional moment.
Before the game, Duguay’s daughter Shay Thomas wrote on her Instagram Stories: ‘Welcome to New York, can’t wait to honor Dad in his town.’
One fan watching the tribute wrote on X: ‘Man, you gotta feel for Palin. She can’t hold it together. I feel so bad for her and the Duguay family,’ as another replied: ‘That was gut-wrenching.’
A fan sat nearby the family shared a photo with Palin and said: ‘I spoke to her & Rons daughters. I offered my condolences & they were very thankful for the kind words. They were sitting a row in front of me. They seem ok.’
Duguay played 12 seasons in the NHL from 1977 to 1989, most notably with the New York Rangers and Detroit Red Wings.
Drafted 13th overall by the Rangers in 1977, the forward became a fan favorite in New York.
The Rangers said in a statement after his death: ‘The New York Rangers organization mourns the loss of Ron Duguay, one of the most popular players in franchise history. Ron’s signature skating style – with his hair flowing as he moved down the ice – captivated The Garden Faithful, and his skill, tenacity, and charisma earned him the admiration of all New Yorkers.
Duguay was a New York Rangers legend and kept supporting the team alongside his family
Duguay pulled a Rangers uniform back on in an alumni game in Philadelphia in 2011
Palin and Duguay, pictured in 2022 at an NBA game at MSG, were in a long-term relationship
‘We join the hockey community in sending our condolences to Ron’s friends, family, and loved ones during this difficult time.’
He recorded 216 goals and 320 assists for 536 career points, highlighted by a standout 1981-82 season where he notched a career-high 40 goals.
Following his retirement from professional hockey, Duguay transitioned into broadcasting, serving as an in-studio analyst for MSG Network’s coverage of the Rangers for 12 years before stepping away in 2018.
