Thomas Warren Roper, 66, of Kimberling City, Mo passed away early Saturday morning, August 20, 2016 at his home in Kimberling City. Tom was born on August 11, 1950 in Southgate, CA. He was the son of the late Warren and Marie (Larew) Roper.

Tom started his career with Safety Ambulance in 1968. He was united in marriage to Glenalee (Menard) on October 30, 1976 at King's Way United Methodist Church.

Tom was one of the first paramedics in Southwest, Mo and was instrumental in the development of EMS in our region. He continued his career at Mercy Hospital for 34 years until he retired in May 2016.

Tom worked for Consumers Market until he decided to go into the medical field. He started with Safety Ambulance in 1968. St. John's bought Safety Ambulance in 1981. Shortly after that he became the manager of ambulance services, thus starting his career with St. John's Hospital. In 1976 Tom became one of the first paramedics in Springfield. Tom was also part of the first flight crew on the St. John's helicopter Life Line. Tom loved this career. He went on to teach EMT's and Paramedics. After reading many comments from his blog, it is clear he left quite an impression on his students. Tom held many positions with Mercy, his most recent position was manager of business solutions analysis. Tom retired from his 34 year career with Mercy in May, 2016. Tom's Mercy family has been so supportive during his illness.

Tom was an amazing husband, partner and friend to Glenalee. He taught Ashley many life lessons and Ashley was a true Daddy's girl. Tom's one goal in life was to take care of his girls. Tom loved Nascar racing, boating at Table Rock Lake, hanging in Tom's Cove with dear friends bobbing in the water with a Keystone beer in his hand.

We have a wealth of friends to thank for being on this journey with us.

Tom is survived by his wife, Glenalee of Kimberling City; his daughter, Ashley Roper of Springfield; his brother, Randy Roper and wife Sherry; granddog, Lucy; and a host of dear friends.

Tom fought a very courageous fight and had his humor to the end.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, August 27, 2016 in Gorman-Scharpf Brentwood Chapel, 1947 East Seminole, Springfield, MO. Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until service time Saturday. Flowers and plants will be accepted at the funeral home or in lieu of flowers make a donation to the American Cancer Society.