One of the most common questions we hear from clients during estate cleanouts is, “Where did you find that?” The truth is, we discover hidden treasures in the most unexpected places.
A few years ago, we handled a downsizing project for a family after their father passed away. He had been living in a senior living community, and his one-bedroom apartment needed to be cleared out. The family had removed items they wished to keep so there wasn’t much left in the space. I began sorting through items for donation and disposal. Years of experience in estate cleanout services has taught us to check everything—especially items that seem a little “off.”
While going through the bedside table, I came across a small Sucrets Throat Lozenges tin. It made an unusual sound when shaken, and over the years, we’ve learned that the older generation often stores personal keepsakes in these metal tins. Curious, I opened it, and among the odds and ends inside, I found a wedding ring wrapped in tissue paper.
It struck me as odd that the family hadn’t already taken the ring, so I set it aside to return to them. When the son came by later to check on our progress, I handed him the ring. His reaction? Pure shock.
“Where did you find that?” he asked.
I explained that it had been tucked away in the bedside drawer, hidden inside the Sucrets tin. As it turned out, the ring belonged to his late mother. The family had assumed it was lost years ago. When they moved their father into the assisted living community, they had simply packed up his furniture and belongings without checking inside every drawer.
These are the moments that make our work so meaningful. Finding and returning cherished heirlooms to families during estate cleanouts, senior transitions, and downsizing projects is what brings us the most joy. You never know what sentimental treasures might be waiting to be rediscovered.