The Warren County BackStoppers organization put COVID behind them and set their sights on a record-breaking goal for 2022. Not to disappoint, tickets were sold out weeks before the event held on Saturday, Feb. 19, and Warren County residents were ready to beat all records.

Jeff Backhaus, Warren County BackStoppers chairman and Marthasville Fire Protection District fire chief, said more than 400 tickets were sold, 60 items were donated for the oral auction, and 140 items were collected for the silent auction.

The goal for the 2022 event was set at $100,000, but the board of directors hoped the proceeds would exceed the 2020 amount of $110,000. The 2021 event was not held due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I can’t believe it,” said Backhaus. “This year’s total was $150,000. The oral auction alone topped $100,000. The generosity of the local community never ceases to amaze me.”

In 2010, individuals decided to form the Warren County BackStoppers, expanding the St. Louis area organization. Because BackStoppers provides support to the families of fallen first responders, the death of Officer Vernon Seals, killed in the line of duty in 2002, made the local chapter even more critical. Two additional officers were added to that list, Deputy Sheriff Lonnie Cole in 2003, and Chief Paul Fricke in 2010.

John Dolan, vice president of the BackStoppers Development Board of Directors, addressed those attending the banquet.

“This organization is so impressive,” he said. “Warren County has set the bar as a leading fundraiser coming in only second to Guns and Hoses. It is a good cause — no one will argue about that. What you do out here is amazing.”

Dolan said the BackStoppers organization supports 92 families and 73 children from those families. It supports families from at least 16 Missouri counties and is expanding its reach. Its debt service is more than $2.5 million per year.

“In the first 24 hours, a representative shows up with a check for $10,000 to use in any way the family wishes,” said Dolan. “Within two weeks a financial team works with the family and they become debt free. We stay with them for life.”

Dolan said the organization’s educational fund supports children of fallen first responders through college. He boasts they have even seen some of those students earn a PhD.

The family of Deputy Sheriff Lonnie Cole were present at the event. Cole’s daughter, Becky Cole and her children, Jennifer Trammell and Chris Trammell, stood at her side as she spoke about her father’s death and the support her family received from BackStoppers.

Cole said she has used the motto of “respect, courage and honor, topped off with humor” to handle the tragic death of her dad and her life beyond that day.

“Humor stood here with me the first time I spoke to you,” said Cole. “All you guys that put your lives on the line — that is honor.”

Backhaus said saying thank you for the tremendous support seems inadequate. He is proud of the work the Warren County BackStoppers have done to break another record. Backhaus gave a special thanks to Lulu Hasenjaeger, the organization’s retiring treasurer, for her many years of service to the organization. Hasenjaeger will remain on the board.

Backhaus also wished to thank auctioneer Charlie Nordwald of Wheeler Auctions and Real Estate. He said Nordwald’s close ties to the community is a positive bonus to the success of the event.

Plans are already underway for the 2023 Warren County BackStoppers event. The board of directors thanked everyone who continues to support the worthy cause.