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Ron Duguay died on Thursday, Oct. 22, at the age of 69 after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer
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The NHL star was honored with a moment of silence before his former New York Rangers took the ice at Madison Square Garden on Monday, Oct. 26
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The team also hosted his family at the game
Ron Duguay is being remembered on the ice.
The legendary NHL star — who died on Thursday, Oct. 22, at the age of 69 after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer — was honored before his former New York Rangers took the ice at Madison Square Garden on Monday, Oct. 26, against the Los Angeles Kings.
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The Rangers asked fans to join in a moment of silence for “the life and memory” of Duguay.
The arena then went dark for a few moments before the announcer said “Thank you,” and fans cheered.
The team’s X account also shared a photo of Duguay’s family attending the game.
Duguay began his NHL career with the Rangers in 1977 and played for the Blueshirts for eight of his 12 seasons in the league.
On Thursday, Duguay’s girlfriend of four years, Sarah Palin, confirmed his death on social media.
“It’s with a shattered heart, but also deep peace knowing Ron is with Jesus now,” Palin, 62, wrote on her Instagram Stories. “He fought so hard. Love never ends.”
Credit: Michael Simon/Shutterstock
Duguay’s cancer originated in his colon and later spread to his appendix and gallbladder.
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In the months before his death, Duguay’s family, including his two daughters, Shay Thomas and Amber Stavros, shared that Duguay’s loved ones had created a GoFundMe for him “because we’ve seen firsthand the weight this battle has placed on him, both physically and financially.”
“Our dad has never been someone who asks for help,” Thomas wrote. “Especially when it comes to money. He has always tried to handle everything on his own and didn’t want to burden anyone else with what he’s going through. But after many conversations as a family, we decided to create this fundraiser for him because we’ve seen firsthand the weight this battle has placed on him, both physically and financially.”
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Before Thursday’s game, the Rangers honored Duguay in a statement.
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“The New York Rangers organization mourns the loss of Ron Duguay, one of the most popular players in franchise history,” the team said. “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. We join the hockey community in sending our condolences to Ron’s friends, family, and loved ones during this difficult time.”
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