DEAR HARRIETTE: One of my good friends moved a few months ago to his hometown, but he didn't leave any forwarding information. He is an older guy, and I can't find him anywhere. For years he would call me every weekend to check in. This became a routine for us, and I became accustomed to it. Sometimes he would miss a week or so, but he always came back around. This time is different. His cellphone is turned off. I don't know what house he moved to or anything. I am so worried that something terrible has happened to him. How can I find him? -- Missing My Friend, Pensacola, Florida
DEAR MISSING MY FRIEND: If you know the town where he went, start by contacting the local police department to see if he is listed as a missing person or if they have any record of your friend. Call all of your mutual friends as well as any family members or other people you can remember him talking about over the years.
As difficult as this will be, you should also contact the local morgue. That's hard to accept, but considering that he is older and missing, this may be a possibility.
You can also hire a private detective to help find your friend. These professionals know how to do a thorough search and may be able to help you.
(Lifestylist and author Harriette Cole is president and creative director of Harriette Cole Media. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)