Serge LeClerc, a former member of the Saskatchewan legislature who resigned amid allegations of illicit drug use, died Saturday following a battle with cancer, the premier's office announced.

LeClerc was elected in 2007 to represent the riding of Saskatoon Northwest. He resigned from the Saskatchewan Party caucus in April of 2010 and as member of the legislative assembly four months later.

At time of of his resignation LeClerc's personal life was under scrutiny because of allegations of illicit drug use.

He steadfastly denied that he had used marijuana or cocaine since stopping decades earlier.

LeClerc had a colourful past and had served time on drug-related convictions. He later became a motivational speaker, using his own life story as an example of how people can change.

Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall expressed condolences Saturday.

'A story of redemption'

"Serge LeClerc's life is truly a story of redemption," Wall said in a news release.

"Serge overcame a very troubled past and went on to touch the lives of thousands of young people with his powerful message about the dangers of drug use," the premier said.

"Our entire family got to know Serge very well and we want to pass along our deepest sympathies to his wife Janine and their family."

Three months after his resignation, Saskatchewan's Conflict of Interest Commissioner — who had been asked to look into the allegations of drug use — said in a report that LeClerc had engaged in "unethical" and "highly inappropriate" behaviour while still a legislator.

According to published reports, Leclerc was 60 years old.