The BackStoppers is now assisting the family of Captain Jacob “Jake” Ringering of the Godfrey Fire Protection District who died in the line of duty on March 5, 2019. Captain Ringering died as a result of injuries he sustained when a portion of a home collapsed during firefighters’ efforts to extinguish a house fire.

Captain Ringering was 37 years-old. He is survived by his wife and three young children between 2- and 8-years of age. The Godfrey Fire Protection District, Madison County community and the Ringering family are in our prayers.

“A hero lost his life yesterday while helping those in need,” said Chief Ron Battelle, Executive Director of The BackStoppers. “Our sympathies go out to his family and we want them to know we’ll be there to support them as they cope with this tragedy now and for years to come.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with Captain Ringering’s  family, friends, and fellow firefighters and co-workers.

Capt. Jacob Ringering
Godfrey Fire Protection District
EOW 3/5/2019

The BackStoppers assists approximately 80 families with 65 dependent children and has assisted over 160 families since 1959.

The BackStoppers’ assistance is immediate and ongoing.  Following the death of a firefighter, his or her family receives a check for $10,000 to be used in whatever way they need.

Within a few weeks, our representatives meet with the surviving spouse to identify the family’s other financial obligations, eliminate the family’s debt, and provide ongoing support for education and other extraordinary expenses.

We recognize the tremendous sacrifices that public servants make every day when they go to work. We understand the burdens placed on surviving spouses and children when tragedies occur. We believe our community has an obligation to care for the loved ones of those who have protected us. We accept the responsibility to make that happen.  Join us in our cause.  Help us provide life-long support for families of fallen heroes by donating or joining online or by mail to the address below.

The BackStoppers, Inc.
PO Box 795168
Saint Louis, MO 63179-0700