Former Toronto mayor Rob Ford, who was often ridiculed for his unique political style and brash attitude, succumbed to cancer at age 46. Ford died on Tuesday after an 18-month battle with pleomorphic liposarcoma, an aggressive type of cancer.

Rob Ford, the controversial ex-mayor of Toronto, dead at 46 https://t.co/52dvPzrtF3 pic.twitter.com/xvphb9VwOA

— The New York Times (@nytimes) March 23, 2016

“With heavy hearts and profound sadness, the Ford family announces the passing of their beloved son, brother, husband and father,” his bereaved family said in a statement. “A dedicated man of the people, Councillor Ford spent his life serving the citizens of Toronto.”

From @SueAnnLevy: Rob Ford to be first to participate in cancer research program https://t.co/MrUdMFOjM6 pic.twitter.com/xU8LUwL2EZ

— Toronto Sun (@TheTorontoSun) March 8, 2016

He was first diagnosed with liposarcoma in 2014 while running for a reelection which caused him to drop out of the race. Instead, he ran for councilor in Ward 2 Etobicoke North, winning it by a landslide. Ford declared he was cancer free in September but was hospitalized again in October after two new tumors had been found in his bladder.

Rob Ford gained popularity among the masses for his unpretentious leadership style. However, he repeatedly found himself in numerous scandals involving drugs, threats of violence and alcohol. After a video showing Ford smoking crack cocaine in his office surfaced in 2014, the former Toronto mayor faced his addiction and said he was entering rehab. Video footage and photographs showing Ford intoxicated in public also emerged.

Despite the scandals about him, Rob Ford was loved by many. Thousands of supporters have shared their prayers for his recovery on a website set up by his family during his battle with cancer.

Toronto mayor John Tory paid tribute to the late politician saying, “His time in City Hall included moments of kindness, of generosity to his council colleagues and real efforts to do what he thought was best for Toronto.”

As #RobFord battles cancer we created a site for people to share their best wishes. https://t.co/aN0Kq9NErt #Toronto pic.twitter.com/pHixH8luro

— Doug Ford Campaign (@DougFord2014) March 7, 2016

Rob Ford’s brother, Doug Ford, also expressed his sadness on his demise: “My heart is ripped out. I loved Rob so much, I took care of him and protected him from the day he was born. I miss him so much. He was my best friend.”