That's a bummer. Hang in there. Not the same obviously, but having just recently lost my grandmother, I've been out of it a little also. It's kind of tough.
I've also had two of my coworkers die in the past 3 years. Both in that general age range.
The thing I've taken away from the experience is to try and take better care of myself so hopefully something like that doesn't happen to me. Eat a little better, excercise a little more, get your blod pressure, and cholesterol checked, etc... Think of it as preventative maintenance for yourself.
And remember to enjoy yourself in your spare time. If you feel like it, and knew him well enough to know what he liked, go out and do that in his memory. I'd be happy to join you, even though I fired you as my used tire guy.
