I've had lab's since I was born, and I absolutly love them. I will always have at least one.
Saying that, I have met a lot of "ruined" labs in my life (usually the owner's fault). But I have yet to meet a golden retriever that I didn't like. Great temperment, well behaved dog's.
Try looking at Petco, or Petsmart on the weekends. They usually have good adoption programs. Or there's the animal shelter, and even KSL.
Good Luck, sorry for your loss.
I think everyone needs a dog or two.