Larry, I corresponded with Mr. Tapply back in the mid-90s about the gun. He said that it didn't fit him very well and he didn't hunt with it anymore. He also said he would never sell it so I am sure he has a very good reason.
When you lose your health, material things tend to not matter, no matter how much sentimental value they might hold.
He probably just wants to see it go to someone who will appreciate its' provenance. What kid even knows who Burton Spiller was? My stepson likes deer hunting well enough but would rather have his 12 gauge 870 than a 20 gauge Parker, no matter who once owned it.