I would find it hard to believe there are literally no records. Some things we do to find assets: there is a database called life insurance policy...

Well if it is the uncle who paid for the funeral, under the abbreviated procedure you described (which is stated in PEF code section 3101) it is...

A person's estate needs a legal representative in order to do business on its behalf. The will would have to be probated (a copy is not enough) so...

This is too fact-specific to really give much of an answer online. I would advise that you set up a consultation to discuss in more detail.

While there could be some downsides to opening the estate for litigation purposes only, you would very likely be able to probate the will and...

If it has been probated you can obtain a copy - it is public record. You would need to contact the probate court (depending on where it is called...

I would not count on it, although executors are supposed to notify beneficiaries (those named in the will) and heirs (those who would inherit if...

I would note that a less formal writing if it only applies to moveable personal property could be deemed a Personal Property Memorandum so it could...

I agree that this is very puzzling. You have options however, so hire your own lawyer and one of us can help you.

Did you agree/make a contract with whomever handled the cremation? If not, you are not responsible.