My question is in regards to a boat title and registration. I want to purchase a boat from a friend, the problem I am having is the title is in his grandfathers name who is no longer alive. He gave the boat to his grandson before he died but he failed to give the grandson the paperwork. Unfortunately the paperwork is lost and or destroyed. My question is how can my friend show proof of ownership to renew the title or even register the boat? They have different last names, and the boat was registered 10 years ago. This is in Rhode Island where the DEM handles all of that process. I have contacted the DEM and they stated that my friend needs proof of ownership. Any legal advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.