PL, I wouldn't have believed it until my DH's father passed. My change in thinking came from what I believe was a visit from him 3 days after his passing. You are right, there is a comfort in believing such.
I feel as if my dad fully knows and understands all that went on in his last year... the true content of hearts and minds of all involved. That gives me such peace... no one can sway him one way or another, anymore. I have no case to plead, now. He knows how I felt, what I was thinking, and how much I love him.