An old friend passed away a couple of weeks ago in a truly tragic road accident.
I haven't seen this person for quite a few years now but we went through school together and were pretty good friends for quite some time.
Although I'm not close to this person anymore I feel rather shocked by it all and very saddened by the news. I would like to go to his funeral if possible.
I am due to start a new job on Tuesday. The funeral is on Thursday. Do you think I can ask my new employer for leave so soon? (To take as part of my annual leave of course). If it were a close friend or family member I wouldn't think twice but considering I've not seen this person for quite some time I'm not sure whether this will look badly to a new boss.
I feel awful considering work when my old friend has lost his life, a son has lost his Dad, but I'm just not sure whether it would be best to pay my respects privately afterwards.