Maybe the plane can be flown to I started to with a 150 that I bought with a partner. It was a great plane, but quite tight for two 1.82m guys that weighed 100kg each. We eventually upgraded to a 172, which was significantly more comfortable. At that time, the price difference wasn't that great, and maintenance/insurance was about the same as for our 150. If your wife and the rest of the family have any interest in flying, the 172 will give you more options to go places with more than just 1 passenger.
The good thing about these type clubs is that there might be a member willing to go look at the plane for you. Geoff has a good idea about calling the airport. Just be sure that thee person doing the looking doesn't have an interest in the plane. You don't want its regular mechanic to be the one doing the inspection. I'd try Lordsburg first, since it seems to be a bigger town.
Don't fret if this plane is too difficult to take a look at. Plenty more will come along.
