Hi Bob,
My folks were together for 58 years. Mom went first and it was a big shock. Dad had heart issues etc.
I can't say I understand exactly but can imagine a little as my kids get older and want less to do with their old dad. Empty nest sounds good on paper but really it is a lot of hours of your day to fill.
My uncle (dad's brother) lost his wife to cancer a long time ago. He was always involved with his church and seemed after it kept him going. You may have heard the expression "work wife", seems he friended a woman at church and helped her and her husband do things and run arrands etc. (To be clear not a romantic thing but still a type of love there / Friendship.)
Sorta rambling and this may sound weird, don't read this wrong but I hope I can have a love like my folks, my uncle, and you some day.
This forum has gotten me through tough times. Lots of good people here. Feel free to vent anytime. Even a small note to say hi is sometimes all it takes.
I wish you the best. Take care, Roy