THE Stobbe FAMILY STORY
How a Living Trust Protected the Stobbe Family After Tragedy
When Les and Gloria Stobbe worked with Anthony Saccaro Law to create a living trust, they had no idea how quickly that decision would matter. One week after signing the documents, they were killed in a plane crash. What happened next became one of the most powerful examples of why proper estate planning truly protects families.
A DECISION THAT MATTERED
A Living Trust Created Just Days Before Tragedy
Twenty-five years ago, Les and Gloria Stobbe met with Anthony Saccaro to establish a complete estate plan. They signed and notarized their living trust documents, transferred property titles into the trust, and put everything in order.
Just seven days later, Anthony opened the local newspaper and saw their photos with a short caption: killed in a plane crash.
Because the living trust was already in place, their children avoided a long and costly probate battle. The family was able to step in immediately, continue running the family business, collect rents, pay bills, and focus on grieving instead of fighting the court system.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
“The next day, we were running the business. We were collecting the rents, we were paying the bills. The transition was unbelievably smooth despite the tragedy and a pending funeral in two weeks. And that’s what our parents would have wanted us to do — to pick up and move on.”
What the Stobbe Family Experienced
“Had they not signed the living trust, we would have gone through a terrible probate battle and had to deal with the government because my parents had acquired properties over the years. Thank goodness that Anthony encouraged my parents to sign a living trust and put the titles in the trust to protect the rest of the family — my siblings and myself.”
Marlon Stobbe, Client
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More Than Asset Protection — It Protected Family Relationships
The Stobbe family’s experience shows that a well-designed living trust does more than transfer assets. It preserves family harmony during the most difficult moments.
AS ANTHONY SACCARO EXPLAINS:
“It’s not just about making sure that your assets pass — it’s about keeping the family relationships there. Les and Gloria were smart enough to take the time and put that together. If they stated in a document what they wanted to happen, it eliminates confusion. When you have an impact on a family like that, it’s memorable.”
Why Clients Choose Anthony Saccaro Law for Estate Planning
The Stobbe story reflects the real difference thoughtful planning makes:
01
Avoiding probate and court delays
02
Keeping private family matters private
03
Protecting relationships during times of grief
04
Giving surviving family members clarity and peace of mind
05
Ensuring a smooth transition of property and business interests
MARLON Stobbe SUMS IT UP SIMPLY
“The best thing about having a trust is not worrying about the fact that we’re all going to pass away one day. At least if we have a trust and a financial plan for our loved ones, it makes it much easier. It’s just a load off my mind.”
Protect Your Family the Way the Stobbes Did
Life can change in an instant. The Stobbe family was able to focus on healing instead of legal battles because Les and Gloria took the time to plan with Anthony Saccaro Law.
If you want the same clarity, protection, and peace of mind for the people you love, we’re here to help you create a plan that works when it matters most.
Ready to protect your family?
Contact Anthony Saccaro Law today to schedule a conversation about living trusts and estate planning.