[longtermmemmory]

actually this is also common practice in the USA following the AIDS epidemic. Homosexuals who died in the closet did not want it known about their recreational sex behaviors.

[Spunky]

actually this is also common practice in the USA following the AIDS epidemic.

I think you may be wrong on this. In the USA I am pretty sure there is always a cause of death listed. All those I have known who have died there is a cause of death listed on their certificates and signed by the doctor.