Thomas Aley Obituary
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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4 Entries
Ray Quick
January 23, 2026
I did some dye tracing with Tom. He was an extremely professional and knowledgeable.
Ray Quick
Tim Dennis
November 8, 2025
Good man.
Met Tom while is was a student in college and turned to him as an expert on ground water for several news stories.
He was an expert and relayed his knowledge in an easy to understand manner.
David Bowles
October 26, 2025
Farewell Tom. Your contributions to Ozarks hydrogeology are legendary. I will never forget that day I floated the Illinois River with you on a raft. What an education I received. You will not be forgotten. Your work and the cave will carry on. Respect.
Katie D Lockhart
October 26, 2025
Rest peacefully, Grandpa Tom. Love, Katie
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16560 US-160 P.O. Box 425, Forsyth, MO 65653
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