Kym Marsh's father David Marsh has died aged 78 following a battle with prostate cancer.
A spokesman for the former Coronation Street actress, 47, confirmed his death and said he died peacefully at home on Friday.
A statement to the PA news agency said: “It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of David Marsh.”
“David was a much-loved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to many. He passed away peacefully at home yesterday surrounded by his family.
“We are truly heartbroken and ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time.”
Kym Marsh's father David Marsh has died after a battle with prostate cancer
A spokesman for the former Coronation Street actress, 47, confirmed his death and said he died peacefully at home on Friday
Kym was very close to her father, who was diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer three years ago, and previously said he “inspires” her daily.
Last Father's Day, she posted a heartfelt tribute to him on Instagram, writing, “Your strength in life has always been immeasurable.”
“You handle everything life throws at you with a smile on your face and a joke always at hand.”
“You're the best father anyone could ask for and I'm so glad you're mine.” Here's to you, Dad! Always your shadow. I love you always and forever.'
David appeared on the BBC's Morning Live, co-hosted by Kym, in November, where he discussed living with prostate cancer.
“It’s daily,” he told host Gethin Jones. “One day I feel good and the next day I feel bad, you know? That's how it is now.'
Kym said: “It's really day by day, you don't know.” We plan things and try to plan and create as many memories as possible, don't we?
The star said dealing with her father's illness has brought her and her siblings closer together, adding: “I have two older brothers and an older sister.” “It's very rare that we all get together, but we all do did a lot together.”
A statement said: “David was a much-loved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to many, and passed away peacefully yesterday at home surrounded by his family.”
Kym was very close to her father, who was diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer three years ago, and previously said he “inspires” her daily
On Christmas Eve, Kym shared a photo of her father and mother Pauline taken on their wedding day and said she wanted to dedicate the holiday to them
On Christmas Eve, Kym shared a photo of her father and mother Pauline taken on their wedding day and said she wanted to dedicate the holiday to them.
She wrote: “Thank you both so much for giving us the best Christmas ever.” For all the fun and laughter! For all the joy and love! For the endless queues for our favorite toys.
“For never making us feel like your Christmas was a struggle, which we now know. Thank you for loving us, for giving us so much happiness and for being the best parents we could ever ask for.
“So this Christmas I’m toasting you!!!!! My amazing mom and my amazing dad!! Merry Christmas! I love you more than you will ever know.'