• 2026 Sessions

    The Museum of Flight welcomes you to our estate planning sessions for 2026.

    Estate Planning 101 with John Creahan

    In-Person
    Tuesday, June 30, 2026
    11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
    Third Floor, South View Lounge, The Museum of Flight 
    Lunch will be provided during the session.

    Virtual via Zoom  
    Friday, July 17, 2026
    11:30 AM to 1:00 PM

    Estate planning is for everyone, and with market volatility and economic uncertainty, you might be concerned about the estate you’ve worked a lifetime to build and the legacy you intend to leave. Hear insights regarding common myths and misconceptions about estate planning and get answers to your frequently asked questions.

    • Do I need a will or a trust?

    • What documents do I need?

    • Who will make medical and financial decisions for me if I am unable?

    • What are my options for retirement income planning?

    • How can I leave the legacy I want for my heirs and the non-profits I care about?

    • Q&A session

    John Creahan
    Cairn Law, PLLC

    John Creahan is the founder of Cairn Law, serving the legal needs of individuals and families in greater Seattle. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Law and Brown University, John has a deep background in tax and business issues and has been practicing for more than 30 years.

    Attendees who complete an evaluation survey can also request a free, one-hour consultation with Mr. Creahan.

    Estate Planning 102 with John Creahan

    Please check back for updated dates/times for this session, tentatively scheduled for Fall 2026.

    This is a follow-up to our introductory session, Estate Planning 101, but prior attendance is not required. This free educational seminar/webinar will cover topics including:

    • Basics of state and federal estate taxes

    • Income tax issues with inherited IRAs

    • Charitable gifts that give back

    • Donor Advised Funds - Should you consider one?

    • Q&A session

    John Creahan
    Cairn Law, PLLC

    John Creahan is the founder of Cairn Law, serving the legal needs of individuals and families in greater Seattle. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Law and Brown University, John has a deep background in tax and business issues and has been practicing for more than 30 years.

    Attendees who complete an evaluation survey can also request a free, one-hour consultation with Mr. Creahan.

    Previous Sessions

    2024

    Estate Planning Basics

    Amanda M. Nathan, JD
    Attorney at Law, Partner
    Gordon Thomas Honeywell LLP

    Estate planning is an understandably sensitive and difficult topic, which makes it very easy to kick down the road. However, a lack of planning can cause your loved ones to be caught off-guard in the face of an unexpected tragedy.

    During this session, we discussed:

    • Values and goals that drive your plans
    • Basic estate planning documents related to your finances and your health
    • Different roles that your family and friends play in your estate plans
    • How your plans evolve along with you

    Trust Planning Basics

    Sharon Perlin, JD
    Senior Vice President, Client Advisor 
    Whittier Trust 

    In a state like Washington, with a simple probate system, trusts might not be seen as necessary, but they offer many benefits depending on your circumstances.

    During this session, we discussed:

    • Different types of trusts
    • Family situations that make trusts an appealing option
    • Assets used for funding
    • Benefits to your family

    Charitable Giving Strategies

    Maria Kildall, CAP®
    Senior Philanthropic Trust Advisory Specialist, Senior Vice President
    Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

    There are so many reasons why you might consider engaging in charitable giving during your lifetime and in your estate plans.

    During this session, we discussed:

    • Your philanthropic vision and values
    • What you want to achieve with your philanthropy
    • Different assets you can utilize

    Utilizing Donor Advised Funds

    Maria Kildall, CAP®
    Senior Philanthropic Trust Advisory Specialist, Senior Vice President
    Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

    Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) are one of the fastest-growing philanthropic vehicles today, but many people still have questions about how to utilize them to support the causes they care about.

    During this session, we discussed:

    • Why DAFs are so popular
    • Their impact on the philanthropic community
    • When creating a DAF can be a good tax-efficient option

    Preparing Heirs for Wealth Transfer

    Lorilee Mills
    Senior Family Dynamics Consultant, Senior Vice President
    Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

    However you define it, family is a critical part of your estate plans and should never be left behind.

    During this session, we discussed:

    • How strengthening your family’s communication around legacy fosters alignment around family financial goals, preparing heirs of all ages, and develops a sense of shared purpose

    Estate Taxes 101

    Lisa Farmer, CPA
    Tax Manager
    Hayes, McColloch & Vickerman CPA Group

    Taxes are never easy and change from year to year, which can make them hard to stay on top of. 

    During this session, we discussed:

    • How the estate and gift tax systems work in Washington State and the federal level
    • Changes coming in the next few years
    • All the tax considerations to address when creating your estate plan to ensure your wishes are fulfilled

    If you would like to learn more about planned giving, and the impact it has on the Museum, please visit our planned giving site: museumofflight.org/legacy 

    If you have specific questions related to planned giving, estate planning sessions, joining our Eagle Heritage Society or need additional resources, please reach out to:

    Joseph Martin
    Planned Giving Officer
    206.768.7199
    jmartin@museumofflight.org