Lamarre joined the board back in 1997 as a director, stepping up to the chairman's role three years later.

CEO Benoit Desormeaux paid tribute to Lamarre in the company's announcement: "Jean made an indelible mark on Semafo, both in terms of his corporate governance expertise and his 45 years of experience in Africa.

"Over his 20-year tenure with Semafo, he brought unique insight, business acumen and leadership to the corporation as it transitioned from an exploration company to a junior gold producer. He did this, always without compromising his values: the integrity of the corporation, his deep love for Africa and its people, and his priority to Semafo's long-term sustainability."

Desormeaux said Lamarre would be "sorely missed".