The Norwalk community paid its final respects Tuesday at the funeral Mass for a veteran police officer who lost his battle with brain cancer.

Cesar Ramirez, 71, served on the Norwalk police force for more than 30 years.

A motorcade made its way to St. Matthew's Church ahead of the wake Monday afternoon, as students from Columbus Magnet School and Side-by-Side Charter School held up signs that read "thank you for your service."

MORE: Norwalk PD Officer Cesar Ramirez dies from brain cancer, leaves legacy of service 

Ramirez served as the school resource officer at both schools. He was also the chairman of the Norwalk Housing Authority.

The funeral Mass was held at St. Matthew's Church.