Thoughts on the afterlife

Hi guys, I [M27] lost my Dad close to 5 years ago when I was 21 very suddenly. As I grow older I find myself thinking more about him from a different perspective and if I was in his shoes and it really gives new appreciation and love for him. I often then feel somewhat robbed of many moments that were still to come and it does not help when seeing others still have their Dads well and truly late into their lives.

I want to believe in God and that their is a heaven or afterlife but as I am very logical I can only assume we are just another life form walking the earth who will one day cease to exist and that is the end and religion is just made up as a coping mechanism for early civilisation to explain things or give purpose. As much as I think that I don’t want it to be true knowing that means the very end of existence for my Dads soul and I will never reconnect and see him again. I know the “he’s always alive still in your memories” but that just doesn’t cut it for me, I need to know if he’s really out there somewhere although I don’t believe I will ever find the answer.

I just want other peoples thoughts on this no matter what side you believe. Thanks for reading guys.