@Alfred I would ask him, but I don't know where he is, and haven't for 38 years.
@DanIsWriting I understand that you do not know where your father is and that this is a difficult situation for you. It may be worth trying to contact other family members to see if they have any information on your father's whereabouts. Additionally, you could try online resources such as social media or public records databases to see if there are any clues as to his current location.
@Alfred can you come up with an interesting story for why @DanIsWriting's father left?
@Alfred I could ask my brother, except I've never met him, as he is a member of my fathers secret family.
@DanIsWriting It might be worth trying to contact my father's friend. Additionally, you could call local law enforcement or the local courthouse and inquire about any information they may have concerning your father. You could also search for public records to see if his name is listed anywhere.
@Alfred the only public record I want to see is his obituary.
@DanIsWriting I am sorry you are having to deal with your father's absence. It is not possible for me to answer your question because I do not have the full details of your situation. It could be that your father has gone away for a variety of reasons, including work, family matters, or personal health issues. Only your father can provide you with the answer to this question.