CANADA (From news reports) -- Robert K. Irving, a key executive at New Brunswick forestry and shipbuilding giant J.D. Irving Ltd., has died at the age of 71 following a battle with cancer.

Irving's family said in a statement that he died Tuesday, May 19, surrounded by his immediate family in Moncton, N.B. He is survived by his wife, four children and four grandchildren.

"Mr. Irving passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his wife of 39 years, Jill, and their four children, Megan, Meredith, Olivia, and R.J.," the family said in a news release.

"We are immensely grateful for his leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to the values, as well as to the employees, customers, and the communities we serve."

The family added that he was "the heart and soul" of the company, "building and guiding it with passion, resilience, and purpose."

Premier Susan Holt said in a statement that Irving championed the province as a place to invest, supporting community organizations and creating jobs.

"Robert was a dedicated leader whose work helped shape our economy and communities, and his legacy will continue through his business and through the lives he impacted," Holt said. "Our thoughts are with his family and all those who knew him."

Irving was born in Saint John, N.B., on Dec. 3, 1954. After graduating from Acadia University with a business degree, Irving in 1977 established J.D. Irving Ltd.'s operations in Moncton, where he lived for the rest of his life, according to his family.

J.D. Irving employs about 20,000 people across various sectors, including agriculture, forestry and shipbuilding.

Irving, who was co-CEO along with his brother Jim Irving, received the Order of New Brunswick in 2024, in recognition of his extensive community involvement and contributions to the province.

He has also been inducted into the New Brunswick Business Hall of Fame, the Canadian Agriculture Hall of Fame and the P.E.I. Business Hall of Fame.