Without knowing all of the background details, I wouldn't think it odd if I was informed about the death of someone second or third hand, even if I were on good terms with the informers. The immediate family of the dear departed has all to do to make funeral arrangements and take care of business, so it's not unusual to have others assist in communicating the news to those who may want to know in order to attend the services or pay their respect in some way. If I'm understanding your scenario coreectly, due to the bad blood between you and the original informer, you've taken it as an insult that he or she didn't inform you directly. It seems to me that this was cause to open old wounds which is what really got to you more than the fact that you received news of your former boss' death second hand. Don't let it upset you. Let it go, not worth it.