[b4me]

if Dad is worn out, why aren’t kids or family helping out or at least helping to find more help? can’t feel sorry when the family not doing all they can to support dad, after dad’s business supported them numerous years.

[Susquehanna Patriot]

With regards to passing judgement on the family ... Dad’s heart is not in it anymore after 54 years. Not sure if they live close by or really have what it takes to run this type of business. The difficulty in hiring makes it easier for him to let it go.

I am guessing he did not structure his business to either (1) pass on to the family or (2) sell it to 3rd party and get a lump sum plus stream of income for a number of years into his retirement years. My advice would any reasonably healthy person in 70 - 75 year old age bracket ought to be working to implement options (1) or (2). Else, the business goes away without seeing if more value could be extracted therefrom.

[Alberta's Child]

In my experience, most people who run small public-facing businesses like restaurants and retail stores work long hours and make great sacrifices so their children DON'T have to do the same thing.

Dad's kids may be doctors, lawyers, accountants, engineers, etc.