How can I find out more about my father, John Abernathy Coleman?

Question

He was born on June 10, 1922. His nickname was Jack.

Answer 1

Hello Janet if you could just confirm whether I have the right John Abernathy Coleman, I will see what I can find about him.

California Death Index, 1940-1997
about John Abernathy Coleman
Name: John Abernathy Coleman
Social Security #: 544096762
Sex: MALE
Birth Date: 10 Jun 1922
Birthplace: Michigan
Death Date: 9 Jul 1995
Death Place: San Diego
Mother's Maiden Name: Trice
Do you know anything about your gran, is that her maiden name, could you let me know, you can email me if you prefer and put what information you would like me to try and find.

Answer 2

If he's the one they found for you, and you live in San Diego, you can look up his obituary in the newspaper on microfilm in the library for free. You have a better chance if he lived in a small town than in the middle of downtown San Diego. If he was an alumnus of a small college, their alumni magazine may have run an obit too. You will probably have to write to the alumni magazine for that, sending an SASE and a small donation.

If he has any siblings who are still living, coherent and speaking to you, call them and ask.

Old city directories (library again) will tell you where he lived and (maybe) his occupation.

If he served in the armed forces, you can write for copies of his service records, but your mom may have to sign off on the request as next of kin. Write if you'd like the link.

If his obit mentions he was a member of the VFW, Elks, Masons, 1st Methodist Church . . ., someone there may remember him and be able to tell you about him.

Exactly what we suggests depends on you. Did you know him all your life and now want to trace his family's genealogy, or did your mother give you his name and birth date last week, from her death bed, finally revealing the secret of who she trifled with in 1942 after a USO dance? People have used this forum for both situations.

Answer 3

Go to the public library in your city and ask one of the geneologists to help you find the information you need.