The family of former Premier Jim Prentice has released a statement on his sudden passing in a small plane crash in B.C.

"Words cannot begin to express our profound shock and heartbreak at the news that our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Jim, has died in this tragic event.

In addition, another member of our family was also on the plane, Ken Gellatly, the father-in-law of one of our daughters, also a very special man.

To lose two family members at once is unbelievably painful and we are certain you will appreciate and respect our wishes for privacy at this time and the coming weeks.

We are also thinking of the other families who have been affected by this tragedy and our thoughts and prayers are with them.

In the time Jim has been with us, he was a friend to many. Jim was a loving and compassionate man who dedicated his life to his family and public service. He will be so greatly missed.

We are certainly appreciative of your condolences and prayers at this terrible time."

Political leaders of all stripes have sent messages of condolence to the Prentice family, including Alberta Premier Rachel Notley, Wildrose leader Brian Jean, Liberal leader David Swann and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.