Former Deputy Governor and Cabinet Minister Chuck Strahl has passed away at the age of 67.

Strahl was first elected in 1993 and represented the Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon riding in British Columbia until his retirement in 2011.

Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre described Strahl as a "dear friend" in a social media post on Wednesday.

Poilievre said, "Chuck's steadfast commitment to our movement and his deep love for Canada was part of everything he did," "He was a man of principle, integrity, and compassion, and a founding member of our Conservative Party."

First elected as a Member of Parliament for the Reform Party, Strahl held several cabinet positions in former Prime Minister Stephen Harper's government. These included roles as Minister of Agriculture, Transport, and what was then called Indian Affairs and Northern Development.

His son, MP Mark Strahl, stated in a family announcement posted on social media that Strahl passed away after a battle with mesothelioma.

They stated that despite his political success, Strahl never lost sight of the importance of family, friends, and his Christian faith.

Strahl was born into a logging family, was married to his wife, Debby Batman, for nearly 50 years, and they had four children and 13 grandchildren, according to the statement.

The family said, "He was very proud of his wife and children and their spouses and grandchildren and considered them his greatest joy and legacy."

Former Conservative Cabinet Minister John Baird said in a social media post that Strahl was "among the most honorable, respected, and gracious people I ever met," and that we will miss "his kind nature" and "infectious sense of humor."