Canyon Resources Corp., a Denver-based mining company, announced that Dr. Richard H. De Voto, chairman of the board, died Tuesday after a long battle with cancer.

De Voto was known for his exploration expertise and his support of the rights of the mining industry. He had more than 40 years of experience in natural resource exploration and management.

De Voto was a co-founder of Canyon in 1979 and a founding director of Delta Gold in Australia from 1984 through 1990. From 1966 to 1987, he was also a professor of geology at the Colorado School of Mines.

"The Board, management team and all present and past employees at Canyon will miss his leadership, friendship and guidance. We shall mourn his loss," James Hesketh, president and CEO of Canyon Resources, said in a statement.

He is survived by his wife, Judy, three adult children and their families and three stepchildren.

Services will be at 5 p.m. Sunday at the Jefferson Unitarian Church, 14350 W. 32nd Ave., Golden.