The Saskatchewan political community is mourning the death of Roger Parent.

The Saskatchewan Party MLA for Saskatoon-Meewasin died Tuesday night, just hours after publicly announcing that he was suffering from cancer.

The 63-year old was first elected to the Legislature in 2011, and re-elected this past spring.

“Our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to Roger's family,” Premier Brad Wall said.  “This is a huge shock to all of us.  Roger was here in the Assembly carrying out his duties throughout most of the fall session and only learned he had cancer in the past couple of weeks.

“This is a sad day and sudden loss for all of us who knew Roger.”

In addition, Saskatchewan NDP Leader Trent Wotherspoon said "more than a Member of the Legislative Assembly, Roger was a beloved family man and a devoted member of his community."

Flags at the Legislature are flying at half-staff today in Parent's honour.