The ebullient Lapierre, known for his good humour and animated style on air, made a second career in the media after serving as transport minister in prime minister Paul Martin’s Liberal government from July 2004 to February 2006.
He also acted as Martin’s lieutenant in the mostly French-speaking province.
“We’re going to miss him terribly,” a visibly upset Martin told CTV television.
“He was a very good political analyst, he was one of the best, but he was also a superb political figure in this country and it was a great privilege to work with him,” he said.