Thomas John Aley

Thomas John Aley, 87, of Protem, Missouri, died on October 20, 2025, following a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He is survived by his wife, Cathy; son, Dave; daughter, Anna; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Mary Aley, and his brother, James Aley.

Tom was a respected hydrogeologist, speleologist, and the founder and president of the Ozark Underground Laboratory. He held multiple state certifications as a Professional Geologist, as well as national certification as a Professional Hydrogeologist and a Certified Forester. He was a member of several professional organizations, including as a Fellow of the National Speleological Society. He received numerous awards for his contributions to speleology and the protection of environmental resources, many of them jointly with his wife Cathy.

Services will be announced at a later date. Arrangements were under the direction of Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel, Forsyth, Missouri

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