I find as I get older and have more time, I recall even more vividly all of those that have drifted apart for whatever reasons. Also know some that are like family to this day. Maybe this is what each of us goes thru as we're leaving this life ?
The loss of a friend can hurt more than losing a family member in some cases, because we choose our friends and we associate our memories with them to various times in our life.
So sorry you lost your friend. That was such a lovely post and a lovely tribute to boot. Long may his influence carry you both into the future and to the ears of music lovers everywhere… it sounds like he would be proud of you for that.