Widow vs. girlfriend on Kinkade estate
July 2, 2012 8:28PM
Updated: August 4, 2012 6:20AM
SAN JOSE, Calif. — Thomas Kinkade’s widow and girlfriend are facing off in court over who will be executor of the late artist’s $66.3 million estate.
Amy Pinto-Walsh, who was living with Kinkade and found his body in April, submitted handwritten notes she says bequeath his mansion in Monte Sereno and $10 million to establish a museum of his paintings there.
Kinkade’s wife of 30 years, Nanette Kinkade, disputes the claims and seeks full control of the estate. The couple had been legally separated for more than two years when Kinkade died.
The painter’s work led to a commercial empire of franchised galleries and spin-off products said to fetch some $100 million a year in sales.
AP
