If locator is off can I still locate my iPad 2

You need to have the device in your hands to turn on "Find my iPad".

Why do so many people only think to activate this free feature, AFTER they lose their device?

There is no other way to find it if stolen as the thief will probably do whatever he/she can to avoid it being found.

If you had simply misplaced it, then you could've looked in all the places you've been recently.

I would suggest you report it stolen to the police, and change the passwords to every account / website you had set up on it.

These links may be helpful.

How to Track and Report Stolen iPad

http://www.ipadastic.com/tutorials/how-to-track-and-report-stolen-ipad

Reporting a lost or stolen Apple product

http://support.apple.com/kb/ht2526

Report Stolen iPad Tips and iPad Theft Prevention

http://www.stolen-property.com/report-stolen-ipad.php

How to recover a lost or stolen iPad

http://ipadhelp.com/ipad-help/how-to-recover-a-lost-or-stolen-ipad/

How to Find a Stolen iPad

http://www.ehow.com/how_7586429_stolen-ipad.html

Oops! iForgot My New iPad On the Plane; Now What?

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303459004577362194012634000.html

 Cheers, Tom 😉