The Estate of Wilson Lucom

Here is a summary of events surround the estate of Wilson Lucom as compiled from Marc Lacey, A Curmudgeon Leaves Millions to Poor Children of Panama, and the Battles Begin, NY Times, June 25, 2008 and David Usborne, Family fight will that leaves $50m to children of Panama, Independent, July 11, 2008:

• Wilson C. Lucom died in 2006 at age 88.
• Wilson’s estate is valued at over $50 million.
• Wilson was very conservative in his views and even believed that dropping a few nukes would solve the world’s problems
• He once considered leaving his entire estate to the person who captured Osama bin Laden.
• Wilson left the majority of estate to a foundation to aid poor children who live in Panama where he had lived for several years near the end of his life.
• Wilson was not previously known for his love of children; he was child-free and was not close to his step-children.
• Wilson’s wife, Hilda Lucom, is contesting the will even though she is entitled to $20,000 per month from his estate for the rest of her life.

• So far, courts have upheld the will but there is a fear that judicial officials could be subject to political interference.

For detailed information, see Report to the Attorney General Country of Panama which includes copies Wilson’s will and other relevant documents.

Special thanks to David S. Luber (Attorney at law, Florida Probate Attorney Wills and Estates Law Firm) for bringing this situation to my attention.