The consistently high suicide rates of older white males provide a strong rationale for increased study of the geriatric suicide problem. Data related to white males aged 60 and older who killed themselves in Arizona during 1970 through 1975 are presented. Also included are discussions of: the typical means of lethality employed; geriatric suicide rates; clues to geriatric suicides; the suicidal scenario in late life; and the roles of the confidant, the physician, and of retirement.