The Inside Loop-2012/04

I’m sure many of us can relate to
losing a club member, a flying
buddy, and a friend. I have lost a
few over the years—one only a few
days ago. When I received that phone
call, it was like a
punch in the gut;
especially when that
person hadn’t even
made it out of his
30s and has a family.
Although I mourn
the loss of a friend,
I am also reminded
to be thankful for
each day on this
earth and to consider
getting my modeling
affairs in order. By
that I mean letting a
family member know
what my wishes are
regarding my models
and equipment.
Another option
would be to put it in
a will.
The first time I lost
a close flying friend,
his family decided to
gift his models and
equipment to those
who were closest to
him. This meaningful
gesture provided
each friend with
something to remember him by and
ensured his models would continue to
fly.
I had the honor of helping the
family and delivering the models
and equipment to those who would
appreciate them the most. It was clear
that he wanted us to have his aircraft,
but he hadn’t determined which
models should go to whom. That’s
where I came in and tried my best to
do what he would have wanted.
In another situation, the widow
requested the help of the club to
determine the value of her late
husband’s models and then had a
weekend sale at the club where nearly
everything was sold.
It is also common for someone who
may have a lot of models to have an
estate sale. This can be done at the
home and keeps from
having to transport,
and possibly damage,
the models.
The National
Model Aviation
Museum often
receives inquiries
about donating a
loved one’s models.
Although this is
certainly an option,
keep in mind that
any aircraft and
equipment donations
have to go through an
acquisitions process
because space is
limited. Information
about the process
can be found on the
museum’s website at
www.modelaircraft.
org/museum/
donations.aspx.
Whatever you
decide, the important
thing is proper
planning. Make your
wishes known and
provide a list to the
person who will handle your affairs.
If you plan to gift your models and
equipment, note who should receive
what.
If you want to sell your models
and equipment, provide approximate
values—at least for the more
expensive items. If the contents of
your hangar change frequently, it
would also be a good idea to update
your list every year or two.
Ultimately, no matter what you
decide, letting your loved ones know
your wishes regarding your models
removes the burden from them during
a difficult time.