Others may keep the actual newspapers for several years. You may still not find a notice if the deceased was not a resident, was destitute or institutionalized, or without living relatives or friends who cared for him. T his is where the funeral homes, hospitals and care facilities, etc. come into play. With as much information as you can gather, dates, names, places, etc., contact these institutions to see if the deceased is in their files. Briefly explain the purpose of your phone call, but keep in mind that their prime objective is not answering queries about the past.
Privacy laws vary in each jurisdiction.
They may prohibit any divulgence of information, even to the point of forcing the staff to be unable to deny or verify that the deceased was indeed, ever on file. All you can do is to seek reconsideration via the governing body. Never abuse the person responding, as they are just doing their job. A lways offer to reimburse copying and mailing expenses. Of course, show gratitude for the time and effort extended, even if no information of any use results.