How can I grieve for my friend ?

Are they live streaming the funeral? That seems to be very common these days and would help you feel part of the proceedings. I would maybe donate to a charity in his name.

I am so sorry for your loss 💕
It will be a hard time for you.
In the short term maybe create an area in your home where you can light some candles in front of a favourite photo of your friend plus a small vase of flowers?
Or light some candles in the window on the day of the funeral.
Play some music you both enjoyed.
Raise a favourite tipple?
Best wishes 💕

I always light a candle at a church when I lose someone. Or, as happened recently, if I find out about the death of someone from my past.

MayBee70

I always light a candle at a church when I lose someone. Or, as happened recently, if I find out about the death of someone from my past.

I'm not religious but I always light a candle when I visit a church or cathedral. I find it very comforting and respectful.

Notjust.... - is there a place near where you live which reminds you of your friend? You could go there and remember him.

Oh, OP, I really feel for you. Could you get a beautiful notebook and write all the things you remember about him and your times together....or have you done that already....? There are lovely notebooks by artists like Angela Lewin and some have a magnetic edge that protects the pages....and a place holder.....

On the day of his funeral you could do whatever you have to do to remember him and bring back fond memories, look at photos, read letters/emails/texts he sent, perhaps purchase a helium balloon, hold it whilst you say goodbye then let it go and watch it fly away. Then although you are not physically at his funeral you are still taking part.

At the time of the Cremation service, light a candle and say a prayer or a poem and think of all the happy your friend.

This is happening more now, first with Covid restrictions and now that Cremations are taking place without a ceremony or any mourners there.

Why or indeed what are you asking?
You will grieve in your heart and treasure the good memories. Grief is personal and can’t be taught.
If you are asking how to commemorate your friend that is another matter.
A donation to an appropriate charity in his name , a rose for your garden, a tree, an album of pictures of you both, if those exist. Or perhaps a trip to a place where you spent time together and raise a glass.
You don’t need a gravestone or a plaque to remember someone you were close to.

think of all the happy your friend
Sorry

Think of all the happy times you had with your friend.

Rosie and Hermaw
Thank you for your ideas
Yes I was asking how to commemorate him and of course yes I will be grieving in my heart for many years

Thank you Allira

Thank you all for your kind suggestions which I hadn’t thought of
I think I am still numbed by the shock …
I will be doing candles etc
Thank you