Korak's Misguided Detour (Unattended Death)

*UPDATE*

First a word of gratitude for everyone that has donated thus far. Because of your generosity, we were able to accomplish much on the initial visit to South Dakota. During the 10 day stay we managed to:
1) prepare Dad's ashes.
2) retain representation for the upcoming probate case and file with the court to become executor. (I will be handling the estate eventually.)
3) hire a biological cleanup company to remove the flooring, sub floor, and walls that were affected by my father's unattended death.
4) collect necessary paperwork to assist the lawyer and myself try to make sense of what remains.
5) remove and dispose of all items that are not sentimental that were in the house (due to the smell of decomposition and the nature of the way it clings to items, nearly everything needed to be disposed of).
6) secure what assets can be auctioned once the court approves.

Although the motel gave me a reduced rate, I still spent around $1400 during my 10 day stay. An additional trip is needed once the paperwork is approved by the court. I assume it will be at least another week long stay to accomplish my goals of setting up an auction for items that were unaffected by the decomposition (mainly garage/shed stuff), acquiring a buyer for the property "as is," and finding a way to make the assets outweigh the debts. 

Thank you all, once again, for your help, support (emotionally, physically, and financially), and prayers during this time. I seriously couldn't have done any of this without you. ❤️


Hi,

My name is Erica Korak (also known as RicaJean), and I am the firstborn of seven children to Paul J. Korak, Jr. We received word 2 days ago (after asking for a wellness check) that our father had been found deceased. The coroner couldn't do a proper autopsy due the extent of decomposition. He did not have a will, power of attorney, or anything set up for us to access. Before we can enter the home, we need to have a biological cleanup from a licensed company to sanitize surfaces, remove flooring, and sanitize the air. The cost of the cleanup will not be covered by homeowners insurance until we can find that information within the home (if it's covered). In addition to that, two of us (whom live out of state) need to rent an apartment to address the multitude of belongings he left behind. We will be unable to work during this time, as my father left us quite a lot to address. Cremation, although the cheapest option, is still out of our current price range. There is much to do.

 

Those of you that know me, understand that I would rather not ask for financial help. I've always been a person that tries to find a way on my own. I am beside myself with the gravity of this endeavor, but optimistic that help, love, and peace are attainable when ego is set aside. My eternal gratitude is extended for all of your loving thoughts for each of us as we process this sudden traumatic experience. My father used to tell us, "You Love Me Today," was a better way of saying, "I Love You." He believed that acknowledgement of Love was the greatest expression of gratitude. Thank you.