Originally Posted by
SueZQ from MN
Making a new quilt for your dad is a wonderful gesture and I would wrap it for him even if it isn't quite finished. Until you have had a heart to heart with your dad about the sentimental value of the old quilt to him, I would leave it untouched. I am inclined to agree with the others that he treasures it for the memories it might hold of your mother, and to transform it into something else might not be to his liking.
I agree. Talk to your father, leave your sister out of the conversation. If Dad wants it for sentimental reasons, explain that it will not be the same after repairing, or attempt to repair and do your best. I would try to replicate the original in some manner, colors or pattern and present him with a new version of the original IF that would please him. That way he would have two sets of memories in one quilt.