This friend sounds like he was a good role model, someone you could admire for the way they approached life and dealt with adversity. Maybe part of a generation that didn't complain too much and got on with things, a generation that had fewer material comforts.
I can identify with your aspirations, especially after having dealt with a lot of negative crap-It's to do with spiritual growth. I think funerals do get you to think about where you stand with regard to the rest of your life-and that's been positive for you, so it's never just an end really.