We are honoring the legacy of Captain Ivan LaGrand of the Cape Girardeau Fire Department who died in the line of duty on December 1, 2021 after battling COVID-19. Captain LaGrand was 54 years old and had dedicated 34 years to emergency services.

He served with the Cape Girardeau Fire Department for 25 years and was an emergency medical technician instructor for the Career and Technology Center in Cape Girardeau. Captain LaGrand also taught CPR classes, was a founding member of Seniors and Firefighters Engaged, was a Reserve Deputy and Emergency Dispatcher for the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Department and was a member of the Fire Marshals Association of Missouri and the Jefferson County Marshals Association.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cape Girardeau Fire Department and all who knew and loved Captain Ivan LaGrand.

“My deepest sympathies are extended to the Cape Girardeau community and all the lives that Capt. Ivan LaGrand touched. He lived a life dedicated to public service and his legacy will be forever honored.” – Chief Ron Battelle, BackStoppers Executive Director

Capt. Ivan LaGrand

When a line of duty death occurs, The BackStoppers steps in with immediate assistance that is then ongoing.  After immediately providing $10,000 to the family to be used in whatever way they need, we meet with the family of the fallen, eliminate their debt, and arrange to provide ongoing support for expenses such as health care, tuition, and more.  The BackStoppers is always there.  We’re able to offer life-long assistance to the families of the fallen because of the generous support of members and donors.

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

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