Marco Rubio's father dies

The father of Marco Rubio has died. The elder Rubio suffered from a long bout with emphysema and lung cancer.

In a statement released Saturday night, Rubio said his father passed away surrounded by family and loved ones.

Mario Rubio was 83 years old.

Marco Rubio described his father as a hard worker and a kind family man.

“He was by far the most unselfish person I have ever known, always focused on others, and never on his own well being. He was especially determined to provide his children opportunities he himself never had," Rubio said.

Rubio had cancelled a scheduled appearance on NBC's Meet The Press to be by his father's side.

In lieu of flowers, the Rubio family requests honoring Mario Rubio’s memory by supporting the League Against Cancer/Liga Contra El Cancer http://ligacontraelcancer.org.

Kendrick Meek released a statement on the passing of Rubio's father:

"Since learning of the news on Friday morning, I along with my family have kept Marco and his family in our prayers. The passing of a father occurs only once in a lifetime and ever the dutiful son, Marco was where all children would hope to be during this time of family need - at his dad's bedside surrounded by family. That Marco's father could come to this country with next to nothing, raise a loving and growing family to include a son who is a candidate for the U.S. Senate in Florida, is a testament to the strength of the Rubio character and proof positive of the greatness of this nation. Political differences takes a back seat to the priority at hand - caring for a mother and spending time with family. Let mourning be combined with celebration for a life that is exceptionally American, a life that only a handful of people have ever lived. My wife Leslie, our children, and my mother Carrie extend our condolences to you Marco and your family."