Our dad passed away in August and it’s been a journey. He was diagnosed with Stage IV stomach cancer in mid-July. The last text I received from him is dated July 29. He had a stroke that night and was hospitalized. By then the cancer had metastasized to his bones, liver, kidneys, and lymph nodes. Thanks to the generosity of some of my coworkers, yes some of the ones who drive me nuts, I was able to be there by his bedside on August 6. He passed very early on the morning of the 7th.
He did not have a will and none of us really knew what to do. We did have a “conversation” about his wishes on the 6th. I used quotes because he couldn’t actually speak but he was able to communicate through sounds and gestures. I also have no doubt he was in his right mind. After spending the next 2 weeks in Arizona packing up his belongings and starting the process for managing his estate, I headed home. #2 was adamant that Dad had wanted her to have his truck. In actuality, it was supposed to go to my son, but since he died intestate, I was/am required by law to maintain custody of all of his belongings until the estate is settled or I am advised by an attorney that I can do otherwise. She refused to see that I was legally bound and decided that instead, she would contest the probate.
Because of this, we are now in the midst of formal probate. Dad owned a house in Idaho, so that’s where the probate is being handled. Thankfully, I was able to find and retain a very nice attorney. Today he called and our conversation really put my mind at ease about the financial situation of the estate. He also said I should email my siblings to let them know where things stand, so I did.
Oh, and I did see Star Wars yesterday and I liked it!
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