Unfortunately death is a very real consequence of addiction. You don't have to go down with him though, and your kids deserve better even if you don't believe that you do (you do, fwiw!). You are powerless over him, but you have total power over yourself and your choices, plus total power over the type of home your children are going to grow up in.
I was told my social services that if I didn't leave my ex, my child would be taken away from me. That's another very real consequence. When there are children and abuse involved, you need to face the harsh reality of the situation. It's ok to love him, its not ok to put yourself and your children in the firing line.