It was a difficult day for law enforcement statewide as funeral services were held Wednesday morning for Passaic County Sheriff Richard Berdnik at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson.

Berdnik was remembered by those who chose a similar path in law enforcement, and he was honored for his lifelong career in public service.

"Obviously it hits the law enforcement family, particularly when somebody takes their own life,” said Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden. “No matter what the circumstances, how tragic, how sad, it's a tough day for law enforcement. You see law enforcement, sheriff’s offices from around the state, gathered here to honor him and his family."

Berdnik died last week by an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound at Toro’s Restaurant in Clifton. There are still many questions surrounding the death of a man who spent more than three decades in law enforcement.

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Berdnik was born and raised in neighboring Clifton and graduated from Clifton High School. He served as sheriff of Passaic County since 2011. Prior to becoming sheriff, he had a distinctive 28-year career with the Clifton Police Department.

His burial was held at St. Michael’s Cemetery in South Hackensack.