I had a lost remote and I have found a solution! Maybe this will help you.
I made a bright background for it, but still could not find it. Then, by accident, I saw it. Look where it was:
The only way to see it was through the tiny, tiny gap between the top of the screen and the tool tray. No wonder I couldn't find it even with the bright background. It was always covered up no matter what!
I had to make a mod to make the tool tray partly transparent before I could finally drop someone in the right place and retrieve the remote.
Anyway, I hope this helps someone!