@flexghost awww, I'm so sorry. 
Losing a dear friend is always so hard. It sounds like you gave him a good, long life. I grew up with 2 dogs and a kitty, and I've had 4 cats as an adult. All were wonderful, and I carry every one with me. I feel blessed by all of them. Our psyches become so intertwined with theirs. In some ways they know us better than anyone else, and sometimes even better than we know ourselves. Now, I'm starting with kitty number 5-- just adopted her yesterday morning. I would post a photo, but she's still hiding.
Sending peace and strength.
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