You're in Ohio, right? Google State of Ohio BMV and you'll see information about how to obtain a Duplicate Title. The weblink says that only the registered owner of the vehicle can do it but you can help the old man by doing all the research. This phone number was give (614) 752-7671 for information on obtaining titles in Ohio. Unfortunately, there is no obvious process described for obtaining a title when a vehicle is off of the registry. You probably should call that number and get the facts. Here, in California it's relatively easy to retitle a car that has not been registered in over five years and is off the registry. I've done it maybe six or seven times in the last ten years. Good luck.
