When to go to a funeral?

[sfa]

I think it's never the wrong thing to attend a service like this, even if it's only to show the family that he was known and appreciated at work. You don't have to have been a close friend to do that. OTOH, I'd probably stay close to the back so you can escape if you start to fall apart, and I would only attend the main funeral and not any graveside service (if there is one) or social gathering afterwards.

Sarah

[squirrell]

{the following is stated from my perspective as a pastor--take it for what you will from there}

Funerals are for the family and friends to have some form of closure by remembering/honoring/celebrating a person's life and to proclaim the hope of resurrection in the midst of a physical death/loss (if people of faith). It is also a time to show support for the family/friends by your presence, even if not by words. If you feel your presence would be such a support, then go. Otherwise, I'd say its ok to skip it. I also second the "main" funeral attendance only as well.