This is a great decision you've made and a worthy tribute to your long friendship.

Interestingly, I've noticed a link between those who don't acknowledge their imminent death and a refusal of a memorial service. I'd like to think I'd use the last months of my life writing thank you notes and telling my loved ones to do any kind of service they like. I'd only tell them not to serve any non-vegan food. But we will see. We don't know how we'll respond until the times comes, I suppose.