Oh, Steve, I'm sorry. I lost a dear friend to cancer last year, and another friend to an unnamed disease last month. The pain is real and intense, but it will pass. Soon you will be able to reach out to his little boy, and perhaps be a presence in his life. The funeral will be tough, but I'm glad you're planning to go.
Grief is exhausting; take care of yourself, go to bed early, read a favorite book, hug your sweetie, and treat yourself tenderly. And know that we care.