BP...First off, I'm sorry for you loss...I just read this for the first time tonight...

Now...My Dad died in 1975, I was 20...There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of him...But...I'm glad I had him as long as I did, he got me ready to take care of myself...Within 3 years of Dad dying, I was on my own, living in Atlanta and teaching hydraulics, transmissions, engines and electrical systems for John Deere...

Why do I say this???

Because you said everytime someone died that you knew a piece of you died...After my Dad died, I felt him with me...This was actually the time that I finally started believing in God...

Try to think of your dog in the same way...Sure, it's sad that he is gone but you are much better because he was in your life for many years...He's still with you and will always be with you...

You can't replace him but you should start a new life with another...I knew after my Dad died that he didn't want me moping around feeling sorry for myself and your lab doesn't either...

Go get another....Good luck...