[keenrodent]

I am sorry for your loss. My father died in 2011 and sometimes I still reach for my phone to call him. I offer you some advice that my mother, brothers and I found helpful:

Don't try to be stronger than you can be. Look to be strong together, where strength, at least in these early, grief-filled days, is simply that everyone is able to take care of today's business. Feed the pets, cook the food, meet the appointments, talk to each other. All you need to do today is what needs to be done today.

Silence does not equal strength. Each of you, feel what you feel, don't try to keep it in or hide it from each other. Together you can work through the pain of loss.

Be open to accepting help where it is offered. It can be a comfort to you and to your helpers.

I hope you and your family will find comfort with happy memories of your father. I don't know that grief actually ends, but it becomes bearable and finally part of your memories. Best wishes to you and yours.