When a biological parent passes away, it has a huge impact on the children left behind. The spouse/step-parent may feel that they are obligated to pick up the pieces, since the bio-parent is no longer around. The step-kids may feel that they cannot get close to the step-parent, because it would be disrespectful to their deceased bio-parent.

One of the questions that comes up is whether the step-kids will keep in touch with their step-parent, even though their biological parent is no longer living. This can be a very sticky situation and if the relationship was strained between the step-kids and step-parent, one side or the other may not be inclined to keep up the relationship.

After the loss of a parent/family member, it is probably a good idea for each family member to go to counseling to sort out their feelings. I think it is important after a parent passes away for the children and the spouse left behind to go to counseling, whether it be individual or family counseling.
Since this is such a sensitive subject, everyone in the family needs to be sensitive of the rest of the family members’ feelings, and to tread lightly when talking about this subject. Hopefully, in the end, everyone is able to respect and listen to each others’ feelings and thoughts.