A "hero" fisherman was killed by a 70-tonne whale just moments after he rescued it from a fishing gear.
Joe Howlett, 59, died on Monday after he helped untangle the whale from fishing equipment in the Gulf of St Lawrence off New Brunswick.
He was on board a Canadian government vessel when the whale swam away from the rope and "responded in a way that ultimately killed Joe".
Joe, who co-founded the Campobello Whale Rescue Team, has helped save dozens of trapped whales and was hailed a "hero" by friends and rescuers.
Jerry Conway, an adviser with the Campobello Whale Rescue Team, told CBC News: "The whale apparently swam away free from the gear and responded in a way that ultimately killed Joe.
"He was a hero - he knew he was putting his life on the line with a 70-tonne whale that is upset… trying to deal with a wild animal.
"He is an integral part of the community, not only as a fisherman but a house painter, and he was quite the entertainment at a house party."
In a 2013 interview, Joe said his job rescuing whales was "not a scary situation."
He told CBC Mainstreet: "I'm a fisherman and I've been fishing for half of my life, and I know what it's all about with ropes and things like that."
A statement from The Canadian Whale Institute read: "We are deeply saddened by the sudden death of Joe Howlett, a brave friend and hero who lost his life freeing a whale tangled in fishing gear.
"Joe, who co-founded the CWI Campobello Whale Rescue Team in 2002, was committed to saving whales.
"He was very concerned about the state of the ocean and the potential for entanglement of whales.
"He was also a valued and respected member of his Campobello Island community.
"Our sincere condolences go to his family and friends at this time."
Canadian fisheries minister Dominic LeBlanc said: "Taking part in whale rescue operations requires immense bravery and a passion for the welfare of marine mammals.
"Mr Howlett’s notable experience and contribution to whale rescue include his very recent and critical role in successfully freeing an entangled whale on July 5.
"At the time of the fatal incident, Mr. Howlett was on a Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) fast response vessel. DFO’s Conservation and Protection officers and the Canadian Coast Guard took part in responding to the situation.
"There are serious risks involved with any disentanglement attempt. Each situation is unique, and entangled whales can be unpredictable.
"I am mindful of the other individuals who were on board the vessel at the time this tragic incident occurred. I recognize it is a very difficult thing to lose a friend and colleague. My thoughts are also with them during this time. I would also like to express my gratitude to all those involved in responding to the emergency.
"We have lost an irreplaceable member of the whale rescue community. His expertise and dedication will be greatly missed."