Adoption of v. M. C.

OPINION

ERWIN, Justice.

This case involves an appeal from a decision of the superior court denying a petition for adoption. Since, among other grounds, the appellant asserts error in the court’s failure to find abandonment by the natural father, the facts of the case will be set forth extensively in order to evaluate such a claim.

On November 19, 1967, V. M. C. was born to appellee, R. C., and his wife in Tacoma, Washington. Twelve hours after the birth the wife died. Appellee, devastated by his loss, agreed to turn over custody of the baby to his mother, the appellant E. M., who had come down…