I am so sorry for your loss. Having been through the deaths of so many members of a large extended family (my dad was one of eight), and then Joe's death last December, I feel that the spirit, soul, life force, whatever you call it, does not die. I feel the presence of them not in a conscious way, but within me. I cannot explain it very well.
I think you will feel the presence of your friend in many ways too, even though you cannot see him.
May you have peace and comfort.
God Bless.