Yeah I was kidding about the mule, though they live 40 yrs or more. Guinea pigs are good for much longer than a hamster although some of them are very vocal. It is quite possible you could get a guinea pig that would be more annoying to your neighbors than a mule.

Turtles and tortoises live a long time too, though less athletic than a rodent.

I'm sorry for your loss, and am just suggesting maybe you can minimize your exposure to the hardship.