How to reinstall Mac OS on gifted A1278 MacBook - don’t have Apple ID

Hi,

I was recently given a MacBook Pro A1278 (From roughly 2012-2013 I think) by my wife’s aunt that previously belonged to a gentleman who recently passed away. We don’t know the Apple ID it was associated with. The device has been previously wiped in some way, when it is booted up it goes to a OS X utilities screen. I’ve tried to reinstall OS X but I understand without the Apple ID this device was used with this is not easily possible. Also, it’s likely that the version of OS X that was originally on this device is no longer available on the App Store.

Can someone who is knowledgeable in these matters explain to me in simple terms what my options are to get this MacBook operating again?

Thanks

Christopher