QUEENSLAND police has extended its sympathy to the family of a respected detective who died on the way to his own retirement lunch.

Detective Inspector Rod Kemp, a “gentleman” of the police service who was to turn 57 this week, died from a suspected heart attack while returning to Mt Gravatt police station in Brisbane on Friday, the Courier Mail reported.

His colleagues were preparing for a farewell lunch ahead of his retirement after 37 years as a police officer.

“RIP Detective Inspector Rod Kemp,” the Queensland Police Service said on Facebook on Sunday morning.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues.”

Assistant Commissioner Bob Gee spoke highly of Inspector Kemp, a married father-of-three sons — including one son who was also a police officer.

“(He) was one of the most respected and well-liked officers I have ever known,” he told the Courier Mail.

“He reached the top of his game professionally and had the respect and admiration of all his colleagues, and more importantly, the wider community.

“Rod was the complete gentleman who took the time to listen and care for people. He touched the lives of many as an experienced leader and investigator.”

Insp Kemp was a respected investigator who led some of Queensland’s biggest murder investigations.

Recent cases included the 2014 death of a French tourist whose body was found in a Brisbane park, and the suspicious death of Brisbane mother-of-four Anthea Mari.

Colleagues paid tribute to the top cop on social media.

“Rod Kemp was a man that loved his family and stood by his brothers and sisters in blue,” Les Melville wrote on Facebook.

“Rank was not an issue with him, because he related to the person. He was a true friend to his mates, he was a true boss to his troops and above all, was a caring and honest man.

“Personally, I always saw him as a friendly, open and understanding man.”