First of all, that is a wonderful story i'm glad you found a relic to treasure and remember him by.

Pressing on. I see no harm in restoring it to its former glory, there are many people on SRP who would be happy to restore it for you.
There is the issue of sentimentality, if you were using it and broke it would devastate you ? If so maybe restoring it and placing it somewhere it can be admired and respected in safety would be the best way forward.

The choice is yours my friend.