Cheryl, I understand how frustrating it can be to determine who was who in those times. Too bad we didn't have SS numbers then!
Sometimes the best tool we have is the other known family members to pinpoint a person's whereabouts at a certain time.
Good luck with his obit, I hope it is more helpful than one I have from that time period, giving teasing, non-specific information such as "the deceased leaves a widow and 6 orphan children to mourn his passing" (orphans? LOL)
Sincerely,
Fran Bolton