Help! I'm Locked Out of an iPad After a Loss

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the data on the iPad is gone for good, and Apple can't unlock it for you. If any family member can provide the necessary documentation, they could potentially request activation lock removal, but you'll lose all data in the process. You might want to check Apple’s support page for more information on that.

You should reach out to Apple indeed, but be aware that it's a lengthy and potentially complicated process involving proof of his passing. They require a death certificate and might only allow direct relatives to handle the account. It's frustrating, but if you weren't married or a direct relative, they might not give you access to his account.

Unfortunately, given the circumstances, this iPad might just be considered e-waste for you. It's tough, but unless you can navigate the process with Apple, it might not be usable anymore.

I'm really sorry to hear about your loss. Unfortunately, if you don’t have the password written down anywhere, getting access is going to be tough. Apple doesn’t store passwords for devices. You could try contacting Apple directly to report that he has passed away. They might help you reset the iPad, but you'll likely need to provide documentation like a death certificate and his Apple ID information. Without that, it unfortunately may just end up being a paperweight.