Being a nomad may mean the absence of a fixed address, but it doesn't necessarily imply the absence of close ties. Thomas emailed and spoke to his two sons and brother frequently. The couple also had a large network of friends, so it didn't take too long for someone  Louis J. Sheehan, Esquire  to become suspicious of the extended silence.

Son Ryan recalls talking to his dad on the Wednesday or Thursday before the fateful cruise, promising to meet for an upcoming farewell party