My condolences as well, Ben.
My father died in the summer of 2004 and it felt like a dark cloud over the world. But Christmas the same year was maybe the most beautiful and contemplative one we experienced in our family. No one was bickering with each other. We just tried to make the best out of the Situation. It was as if his passing made us realise for a moment what family and life itself is all about.
So, I wish you a merry Christmas in spite of your loss.