Richard Douglas "Doug" Alley , age 73 of Elwood, passed away peacefully from this earth on July 1, 2022 at Ascension-St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis.  He was born August 3, 1948 in Elwood to James and Margaret (Peitz) Alley.  Doug attended St. Joseph School in Elwood and then seminary for one year.  He decided celibacy was not for him.  Doug graduated from Wendell L. Willkie High School in 1966 before leaving for a six-year stint of service in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War.  Eternally grateful for the G.I. Bill, Doug enrolled at Ball State University to study his passion – rocks and the environment.  Graduating with honors, he worked in a job and field that he truly loved; but he also complained a lot about it.

Doug concluded his career with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and entered retirement.  He loved his dogs, beer, the earth, politics, the Pittsburg Pirates, St. Louis Blues, and intelligent conversation.  Doug loathed fools, those that endangered the environment, and a list of other things too long to mention.  After retirement, he became almost reclusive until he discovered Facebook.  He was rejuvenated connecting with old friends and making new ones.  His witty reminisces, intelligent commentary, and sharp criticism will be missed by most of us.

Doug had few close friends, but he held them very close.  His family legacy includes 4 siblings, Lee Ann Mengelt of Muncie, Mary Jo Stouder of Elkart, Ray Ellen (Kevin) Conner of Fishers, and Carolyn Robertson; beloved aunt, Ann Caplinger of Elwood; two tolerant cousins, Chris Alfrey and Andy Alfrey; several other cousins; nephews, Rob Frye, Gabriel Sigler, and Sam Stouder; and nieces, Cara Frye, Ariel Webster, Olivia Johnson, and Maddie Johnson.  Doug was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jamie Alley.

A memorial service celebrating Doug's life will be held at 3:00 pm on Friday, July 15, 2022 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with members of his family speaking.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 1 to 3 pm prior to the memorial at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home.  Burial will take place at a later date in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Elwood.  Memorial contributions may be to his favorite charity, Doctors Without Borders, a Nature Conservancy, or any Democratic candidate of your choice.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.copherfeslermay.com.