Jerry, I wish you all the best and hope that, with time, the pain of losing your friends diminishes to a point that is bearable. We shared one of the those friends who died in an accident.
I still remember the first time I held a Hossom -- the Retribution. It was an unsharpened sample for training. Even unsharpened, the fit finish balance and artistry blew me away. here's a pic of me holding it from that first use, with CJ Caracci...
Jerry, if I can do nything for you, please let me know.
Best,
~Brian.