Passed or dead?

Why is it that when we talk of wars, earthquakes or other disasters, it's about how many folk died, the number of deaths etc.
It seems ok to use the 'D' words in such circumstances.
But when it's referring to an individual, a family member perhaps, the term 'passed' is increasingly used. 'Passed away' is fine, but shortening it seems daft. 

As that great philosopher Guy Martin once said, 'When you're dead you're dead'.
Al.

I first heard that expression in Nigeria 40 years ago. I suspect that the use of that term on social media - together with the americanisation of the UK English language - is changing the usage in the UK. I saw an advert recently referring to a casket rather than a coffin. It's part of a trend to avoid plain speaking by using what is felt to be a softer euphemism.

But as you say, Al, dead is dead.

Cymro