In Catholicism, is the Eucharist observed during funerals?

First off I know next to nothing about Christianity. Well, I do know that Catholics have more traditions and ceremonies than Protestants do, and I know about Eucharist. What I didn't know is that Eucharist is used during funeral ceremonies too. A Buddhist classmate told me he recently attended the funeral of his boss (he did not know about the boss's religion but was told the funeral was held at church and he felt it would be a kind thing if he attended). But he told me that he did not know anybody there and there was lots of chanting and at some point the priest started administering Eucharist and people were lining up and he started freaking out because he doesn't drink and he did not want to be impolite either so he kind of just left! I told him I doubt anybody would have forced him and maybe they don't even use wine anyways, but anyhow, though I was aware of Eucharist during regular mass, I was not aware that they also do it during funeral. Can someone explain to me its significance during funeral or if it's shared by all Catholics? Thanks.