Carl Sargeant, 49, was found by his wife Bernadette at their home in North Wales just days after he was sacked from his role as cabinet secretary for communities and children.
The dad-of-two had also been suspended from the Labour Party over allegations of "unwanted attention, inappropriate touching or groping".
An inquest heard today how the Welsh Assembly member had left a note on a utility room door warning his wife not to go in.
He also left another message addressed to Bernadette, his children and friends apologising for letting them down and asking for forgiveness.
The note said: "You deserve none of this adverse publicity because of my acts. I have failed you.
"That aside, I love you more than you will ever know and I'm sorry I've taken the easy way out, leaving you with my s**t."
Family members including his son Jack, who replaced his father as Alyn and Deeside AM, were all present at the hearing in Ruthin County Hall today.
They claim Mr Sargeant had not been told details of the accusations made against him and he wasn't able to properly defend himself.
It is understood details were withheld to protect the identity of the complainants – but family and solicitors say being kept in the dark caused him mental anguish.
An independent investigation by the Welsh government, ordered by the first minister, has been delayed due to Mr Sargeant's family being granted a judicial review over how it will operate.
The inquest continues.
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