would bedbugs live in a bed mattress thats been kept in a garage for a couple of years?

These suckers will likely be there right alongside the roaches after a nuclear attack. Here is a scholarly article about them - and how to make sure you get rid of them.

http://www.nysipm.cornell.edu/whats_bugging_you/be...

If the mattress has been stored where animals can pass through, or it has not been exposed to freezing for long periods of time, it could very easily be more infested than when it landed in that spot. Mattresses are heaven for mice and other small animals. In addition, any bacteria or fungus to which it was previously exposed will have colonized and grown - and that produces pneumonia in whomever sleeps on it.

Mattresses really should be changed out much more often than most people know. THis one may look like a great candidate for being reused, but in truth, it is probably a serious hazard for asthma and respiratory problems. Bed bugs may be the least of your problems.

Bed Bugs are the most dangerous insects which I have ever seen as they can be present in any place and particularly in those places which are not cleaned properly and maintained. There is no doubt that bed bugs can be present in the mattress which was present in a garage for couple of years.

I'm very sorry about your loss, even if the mere 'sorry' sounds useless to me. I just wanted to let you know that I understand your feelings and know it's very hard to let someone go that way, although or even because one haven't seen him for so many years and one wonders what could've done another way or even better, one starts thinking.... I'm just sorry and hope you'll feel better as soon as possible. Take good care of you