I always thought that being in healthcare helps one to accept death and dying as part and parcel of life. But when it happens close, no one is immune to the complexity of emotions that follow.
I believe that we fear death in one way or another because of what we leave behind. But you can only lose something, or feel hurt and pain and loss, when it has meant something to you. So I try to remember never to take anything for granted, and to appreciate and love more. Because there is no reason not to and life is more beautiful that way.