My References Won't Return My Calls!

Dear Experts, I'm a recent graduate looking for work. I did an internship my junior year with a small company where I worked directly for the owner. I didn't do the internship my senior year because I wanted to explore other options. I know my boss was upset when I said I wasn't returning, but he wished me luck and said he be a reference when I graduated. Well, now I'm out looking and have given his name as a reference two times. Both times the employer said that he didn't return their phone calls. I did e-mail him when I started looking to say I was going to use him as a reference and he e-mailed back that is was not problem. So, what's up? I tried calling him twice now about it and he's not returning my calls. He's one of only 2 references I have, so it's important that I find a way for him to speak on my behalf, what can I do? Here is how our T.A.P. experts answered this question:Q#317 Not every ex-boss is helpful - even when they offer. See if co-worker from internship will be reference.(@jtodonnell) Q#317 If someone doesn't want to serve as your reference, don't force the issue. You won't like the results! (@heatherhuhman) Q#317 Sounds like something is wrong (with him personally or as a reference). Keep trying to make contact. You need to know. (@gradversity) Q#317 You need another refernce; disappointing tht he reneged. Find co-wkr, prof; mentor, minister as char ref. (@juliaerickson) Q#317 Ask boss 4 reference letter on company letterhead 2 save time. Otherwise find someone else coworker or clients. (@kgrantcareers) Q#317 Let it go. If reference won't return calls, reflects badly on you. Find other sources. Good ideas given. (@dawnbugni) Q#317 Use a professor. Have another coworker? Stop giving his name to prospective employers! (@beneubanks) Our Twitter Advice Project (T.A.P.) is no longer an active campaign. To find an answer to the above question, please use the "Search" box in the right-hand column of this website.