Longtime broadcaster Ben Meisner has died at the age of 76, according to a report from 250 News, the online news site he founded based out of Prince George, B.C.

The site reported Meisner died in the early hours of Thursday, April 2 at a hospital in Winnipeg after he fell ill on a fishing trip earlier this week.

He was told it was a life threatening and uncommon form of cancer.

Meisner’s wife, Elaine — who is the publisher of 250 News — and their children Reg and Kim were at his side when he died.

“I’m surprised by it, actually a little bit stunned by it … it happened so quick,” said Prince George Mayor Lyn Hall, who has known Meisner both personally and professionally for 15 years.

“He could be a little gruff. He’s tested me more than once, but that’s his job.”

Source: CBC