How do I tastefully apply or write a cover letter for the job of a person who died?

Question

any rules or suggestions on this? How long do I wait?
What is the correct way to go about this without looking like some kind of vulture? This is not the place that I work so I would need a cover letter stating that I knew the person and worked with him etc.

Answer 1

Find out the hiring policy of the company. Then write a standard letter and use the application process. If you reference that person, there is no tasteful way to not look like you are a vulture. Follow standard procedure.

Answer 2

I would wait until it has been made public that there is a job opening. Otherwise, I would compose a cover letter the way you would to apply to any job.