Former Manitoba Premier Sterling Lyon has died, his family said Thursday.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sterling Lyon, loving husband, father and grandfather, and passionate public servant, at the age of 83 following a brief illness," said his family in a statement.

Relatives said he passed away at the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg.

Lyon, a Progressive Conservative, was elected as premier in 1977. He also previously acted as attorney general for a number of years under Premier Duff Roblin.

His family said Lyon was committed to both public service and his family.

In 2009, Lyon was made an officer to the Order of Canada.

"He believed very strongly, and debated very firmly, his views. He was a difficult person to move from his views. But at the same time, he was right most of the time," said former Manitoba Premier Gary Filmon.

"He was a powerful speaker, extremely eloquent. Whether you disagreed or agreed with him, you had to acknowledge he was honest," said Howard Pawley, who defeated Lyon to become premier in 1981.

A funeral for Lyon will be held Wednesday, Dec. 22.

At this point, it's not known if it will be a public memorial.

A book of condolences has been set up at the Manitoba legislature and will be available until Dec. 31.

- with a report from CTV's Eleanor Coopsammy