OTTAWA—Conservative Sen. Tobias Enverga Jr., 61, died suddenly while on a parliamentary trip to Colombia, the Senate has confirmed.
The all-party delegation of Canadian parliamentarians was attending the ParlAmericas 14th Annual Plenary Assembly in Medellin when Enverga died.
According to a statement from the late senator's office, he died unexpectedly Thursday morning.
The Philippine-born Ontario senator leaves behind his wife Rosemer—who was by his side when he died— and three daughters: Rystle, Reeza and Rocel.
He was appointed to the Senate by former prime minister Stephen Harper in 2012 and was the first Filipino Canadian to sit in the Canadian Senate.
"Senator Enverga – known affectionately as Jun… was a proud voice for his community and for the many diverse communities in the Greater Toronto Area," said Speaker of the Senate George Furey in a statement.
Furey said he will be most remembered for his advocacy for persons with disabilities and for multiculturalism.
The other parliamentarians attending the Nov. 15 to Nov. 17 trip to Colombia were Liberal MPs Bob Nault and Randy Boissonnault; NDP MP Richard Cannings, and Conservative MP Bev Shipley.
Leader of the Conservative caucus in the Senate, Sen. Larry Smith said Enverga will be greatly missed and offered his condolences to his family.
"He was a man of great conviction and a hardworking parliamentarian. Through his efforts in the Chamber and across Canada, Senator Enverga had earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and fellow citizens," Smith said in a statement.
Conservative Party Leader Andrew Scheer said the Conservative family is "deeply saddened" by his death.
"The tragic loss of his welcoming and sunny personality leaves a large hole in the lives of all who knew him," Scheer said.
Further information regarding a memorial service and funeral arrangements is forthcoming, Enverga's office said.
Heartbroken to hear of the untimely death of my friend Senator Tobias Enverga. Thoughts and prayers with his colleagues, friends and family.
— Rona Ambrose (@RonaAmbrose) November 16, 2017
Shock and deep sadness is what I'm feeling today upon hearing of the passing of my friend Tobias. Can't help but think of a few weeks ago when we were walking around East Block looking at pictures and, as always with Tobias, sharing a few laughs. Rest peacefully, my friend. pic.twitter.com/8ehsPYK10P
— Senator Leo Housakos (@SenatorHousakos) November 16, 2017
Saddened to learn of the passing of friend and colleague, Senator Tobias Enverga. pic.twitter.com/eI8xlsA5W8
— Hon. Peter Kent (@KentThornhillMP) November 16, 2017