How do you grieve from a great distance when you can't go to the funeral?

One of my uncles died today. It was not unexpected, but it’s still sad. He is the first of an important generation in my family to go.

I live probably 4000 miles from where most of my family is and can’t make it to the funeral.

I’ve been looking at old family photos, remembering fishing and camping trips, and generally reminiscing. Crying a little.

Have you had a similar experience of loss without the comfort and closure that one gets from a funeral and family gathering? What did you do?