My family would and has not told my anything about any family members except the ones I have met. They always told me there is nothing to know and tell. You always want to know your family so you know where you came from. I am doing some research but my family is no help at all.
Yes, this is not easy. Not knowing your family, where you came from, feels to me like robbed roots. I think roots - to know who is your family in detail, is so important.