Okie,
Maybe that crack in the bow was just God's way of showing you that earthly things do crack, bend and break. As our earthly bodies must aslo deteriorate and die, as with your dear friend.
I'm losing my father as we speak, so I'm not being cavalier when I say that it might be a "sign" to let go of things of this realm and focus on that which endures.
George and his memories with you afield will long live. Get with him, reminisce and help him remember the joy of your friendship. Let him feel the love you have for him so that he might carry that with him and you tuck it deep in your heart as well!
Cancer is the ugliest of all malise that rob life. It took Mom. But it is a chance to witness to God's love and peace.
Guess your story just plucked a heart string of mine with things as they are here. Lots of things are falling apart around me, but in the midst of it, is that great reality of "life everlasting!"
Thank you, Jesus!
Keep the Son in your eyes!
Prayers for George