Dennis Farina has sadly passed away at the age of 69 today due to a blood clot. He was the star of ‘Law and Order’ as well as popular movies such as ‘Saving Private Ryan,’ ‘Midnight Run,’ and ‘Get Shorty.’

His absence in the acting world will be missed. In honor of the 69 year old, we’ve composed a list of top ten facts about Dennis Farina.

10. An actual police officer who then led the perfect officer role. Before he started acting, Farina was actually in the police force. It was there under the leadership of Michael Mann that he caught the acting bug.

9. Farina started his career acting in Chicago Theaters after working under Michael Mann.

8. Dennis Farina has earned his net worth of over 8 million dollars from his starring role of mobster Jimmy Serrano in the comedy Midnight Run, as well as the movie Get Shorty where he played the role of Ray "Bones" Barboni. After having these mobster roles, he transitioned to the highly loved role of Detective Joe Fontana on ‘Law and Order.’

7. Farina served on the Chicago Police force for over 18 years in addition to his award winning acting career.

6. He won an American Comedy Award for his role in the 2005 HBO film, ‘Empire Falls.’

5. Turned to acting later on in his life compared to most actors. Farina began acting around the age of 30 years old.

4. His first major role was on ‘Miami Vice.’

3. He was a first generation American. His parents originated from Italy.

2. He is currently survived by an ex-wife and three loving sons.

1. He had a very successful film and television career and he will be missed terribly by the acting community. His impact into the acting and police field will never be forgotten.