I am so sorry for your loss. I know wherefore you speak regarding pets. I had an occasion last year of two of my pets getting out. One was gone for a day, one for 4 days. Another pet died of old age later in the year. I grieved for the pet that died, but got better over time. But the two that ran away was agony. Not knowing if they were hungry, hurt, thirsty, if they were looking for me was hell. I know the word closure gets bandied about a lot, but closure is a good feeling.
I know what you mean.
Not knowing is killing me.