I love my freedom.

I didn't marry until 43,so no kids,either, 8 years in the Air Force, going around the world a few times and then getting out, eventually finding work, but low paying jobs did not help in getting dates,and being rejected had me quit looking for 16 years. Maybe I missed the signals women gave me,to possible father their kids,I dunno...

Only when I got a better paying job,was I able to wife hunt. Ran an ad in a singles paper in San Diego,we talked met,dated and married 6 months later,but now she's passed away from lung cancer,27years sure flew by,I'm going to start looking and dating after a full year has gone by(Sept). I believe Women do not like me,I've tried for friendships, and being "there" for them,so I'm clueless........

Consider yourself lucky!

Didn’t Pablo Picasso father a child in his 80’s? This opportunity hasn’t passed you by. And also, why do you need a wife to be a dad? Might you consider a surrogate or adoption? A friend of mine was a confirmed single gal and while it was harder to adopt than if she were married, she was successful. She couldn’t get the newborn she hoped for, but she adopted a 9-year-old who is now an amazing young woman.
As far as women sensing something: Do you talk about becoming a parent on a first date or in your profile? That could make a woman feel like a brood mare. How about asking your cousin to set you up on a date with a friend whose “assignment” is to give you after-date feedback? Sometimes things that seem small can be turn offs to some people.

My father had me when he was 41, my younger brother when he was 43. Is there a right time for a man to have children? I don't know. As a woman I don't ever feel the need to have children, and at 47 happily child free.

You are still young enough to make this happen. I hope you find the right person to do it with.
I've no idea if bad luck/timing. Vent away.

Children are NOT necessary for anyone. Don't fret about it.
Just have a great life!
There is a Child Free group on here that you may want to join

As a 42 year old well-employed man you can easily find a partner and have children. Just make up your mind that you want that large responsibility and it will very likely happen.