Finding someone can be done, but is often about luck. Last year my dad heard a rumor that his step brother who had immigrated abroad to America many many years ago had died. My dad roughly knew where he had moved to, but had lost his details. We asked around his old school friends and one of them had his last known contact details.
We called the phone number many times, but no answer.
So, I hit google and turn into Mr Poirot. I find a phone book on some website for the area he was last known to be living in, search the name and find 3. We call 2, not the right person, and the 3rd is not answering. I then find the neighbours phone number for the address ive found, call them, they answer, and basically ask them if their neighbour is still alive and to call us.
Turns out I name number 3 was the right person, he`s still alive and is keeping in more regular touch now.
Amazing really the power of the internet. I dont know how id have done it before the internet was around.