Rob Ford, the "crack-smocking" former Toronto mayor, died of a rare form of cancer on Tuesday. He was 46.
The gregarious politician, who gained international notoriety after a video of him reportedly smoking the class A drug was made public three years ago, served a single term as mayor, from 2010 to 2014.
He later entered rehabilitation for his addiction. Ford ran for re-election but dropped out of the race when diagnosed with pleomorphic liposarcoma.
The Ford family released the following statement:
With heavy hearts and profound sadness, the Ford family announces the passing of their beloved son, brother, husband, and father, Councillor Rob Ford earlier today at the age of 46.
A dedicated man of the people, Councillor Ford spent his life serving the citizens of Toronto.
The family asks that you respect their privacy and join them in their grieving and their prayers.
The family will not be making any statements to the media or taking any questions.
Information will follow at a later time regarding memorial services.
He is survived by his wife Renata and their two children, Stephanie and Douglas.