How to recover a gmail account when a family member dies?

This is tricky. If you decide to pursue it, be prepared for some lengthy paperwork. Also, expect that it will take from anywhere between 1 to 2 months.

1. You need to get your documents in order; a copy of your passport or driver's license, copy of the proof of death [death certificate] and a copy of a probate or court order that clearly identifies you as the legal representative of the deceased.

2. You will also need to take some prints of a few emails sent from the deceased to you [the full headers of the emails need to be included in the print].

3. Finally, write a letter [attach your passport photograph] explaining the situation, include the deceased person's email ID and all your contact information [including postal address, phone numbers and email IDs].

4. Take all the documents and ship them to Google at the following address:

Google Inc.
Attention: Gmail User Support-Decedent's Accounts
1600 Amphitheatre Parkway
Mountain View, CA 94043
USA

CREDIT: Times of India

Thumps up to you buddy, i'm sure when people die they dont think to much about getting there email back. But after you think about it for a second or two you will realize there might be some important information that you might need. I just hope I dont have to worry about this any time soon.

yea right, Thanks
For ex: Sometimes in murder case, the investigation agencies may require email to find out what exactly happened, what conversation etc
So its a very nice way
Also in the case of big celebrity like michael jackson
After getting dead, their family members can own his various account via GMAIL

Very nice information. Thanks for sharing. Its a bit lengthy process but it seems useful in several cases like murders, rapes, etc.