That Volvo deserved to be driven. I used to have a grand collection of Volvo 240s (well, three anyway). Over the years they all died, and finally I left the last lonely survivor for someone who would want it more than I did.
That's not an uncommon thing to do in rural Alaska. Most towns have at least one location where unwanted vehicles are left, and it's common knowledge that after a couple years they are free for whoever wants them. A lot of towns aren't on the highway system either, so things like registration and insurance aren't necessary.