Local and state politicians gathered in Westchester Thursday to say goodbye to a man who many call a mentor.

Close to 400 people came to Tappan Hill in Tarrytown to honor Al DelBello.

DelBello served as lieutenant governor, Westchester's first democratic county executive and Yonkers mayor.

Many on both sides of the political aisle say they looked to the democrat - who was known to be fiercely independent - as a mentor.

"The kind of testimonies you heard today about the inspiration he provided, the support, the nurturing, he really was a mentor to generations of people who made a difference in Westchester and New York state; it really is a remarkable life," said state Comptroller Tom Dinapoli.

Delbello passed away May 15 at the age of 80.