1st Generation LDS Members hold the Key
Elder Paul B. Pieper addressed the world in the recent October General Conference for the LDS church. His talk was titled, "The First Generation," and talked about converts to the church and all they can do for their families. Here is what he said about Family History Work:
As the first generation, you are also the key to opening the Lord's blessings to family members who died without hearing the gospel and receiving saving ordinances. Yours is the unique opportunity and privilege to begin this work on their behalf. They are anxious for you to identify them and will help you in your search for their records. Once they are identified, your worthy life will permit you to attend the temple and perform essential ordinances for them. These ordinances will bind you to your ancestors and bring great spiritual power into your life.
My in-laws are both 1st generation members and we have all worked together to get their ancestors work done in the temple. It has been wonderful.