Some family member must step in to carry on, or it will close..--Answer1:sure as an executor will be appointed by the probate court until liquidated or sold for any heirs.--Answer2:Depends on many factors, including how the business is organized and the owners role in management..--Answer3:It depends on how the business is set up. If it is a sole proprietorship then the business dies with the owner. It can be restructured to be run by an heir or the business can be sold. Even if there was no will there is an estate and the business assets are part of that estate. If it is a partnership the surviving partner now owns the business. If it is a closely held corporation then whoever inherits the stock can either run the business or hire someone to manage it for them. Sometimes the owner is such an important part of the business the business cant survive after their death..--Answer4:This could be complex without the will and dependence on the state law and the management of the pesons estate now deceased.Sometimes it goes well and a family member is found to set up and into the position played by the previous owner. Many times the business is simply sold (if possible) and the funds distributed to the immediate family appropriately.In the sell the business scenario Ive seen employees get together and buy the business jointly and carry on as before. This is a challenge surely; yet, occasionally there are some leaders from within side the business that have the skills to make this happen.Best to you