I've related this story before on this forum, so bear with me as I repeat it.
Upon hearing of my conversion to Catholicism some 20+ years ago, my dear (sincerely) Sis rushed to my office to confront me on my apostasy. There was much give and take and one of the "important" points was, of course, the baleful idea of purgatory.
I acknowledged that, yes, I was quite at peace with the concept. I asked her, "Where do you have Uncle Blake?" Well, it was a little snotty of me ... I knew darn well where my evangelical sister had my departed uncle. He had been a large man, with large appetites, and, thanks be to God, a very large heart, and I love(d) him dearly. I told her that for me he was was in purgatory and I prayed for him often.
If it be God's will, Unc and I will hug again in heaven.
I have no doubt that it will be so.
I ask the Blessed Mother to pray for your Uncle Blake.