I was adopted, although probably not legally. I knew my real mother but saw her only a few times--including several years ago. She gave me a name for my father but not much else and I've been able to track down a man with the name who went to the same church she did during that time and would be about the right age, and the picture I found of him makes him a great possibility.

Also--his surname pops up within 15 generations a few times on my DNA testing. He passed away last year. I have his parent's name but contacting his present family is not an option for me because I can't be 100 percent sure it's him and even if it is I can't be sure he's aware he's the father or that the family would have any idea.

Still, I know a little about him. Any suggestions on where I might be able to find out more information about him--the kind of person he was, his hobbies, and so on--without contacting the family?

I know that's a tall order but the last thing I'd do would be to contact his family. So if there are any ideas for resources I'd appreciate it. Thanks.