It is a difficult concept to grasp sometimes, but yes, it is the people who die who have the easy way out. It's why suicide sometimes is referred to as 'the easy way out'. And yes, the people who stay behind bear the hardest burden.

Saying goodbye never is easy, and it never should be. If it ever does get easy, I fear for humanity.

The beeps were intended to act as a psychological countdown, and I am glad, as a writer, and sorry, as a person, to have achieved that affect. But I am glad you liked the story over all. :)