Ben Polson - One of a Kind
Born July 18, 1988, lost January 13, 2022, while serving as a St. Louis City Firefighter. Beloved son of James Polson (Michelle) and Susan Polson; best friend and brother to Rebecca Slay and brother-in-law, Kevin Slay; loving grandson to Patricia Polson. He was a treasured nephew, stepbrother, and true friend to a great many.
Ben attended Vianney, was a Missouri State alumnus, graduated with an MBA from Drury and earned a Law Degree from UMKC.
Ben was a hockey player, philosopher, poet, dancer, and fisherman. He loved life. He spent 3 years in Vail, CO as a ski instructor and outdoor enthusiast. In 2019 he returned to his hometown becoming a St. Louis City Firefighter.
Firefighter Ben Polson - Hero
Ben served our St. Louis Community while working at Engine House 13 in the Hamilton Heights neighborhood of North St. Louis, MO.
On January 13th, 2022, Ben was working a fire in an abandoned building that was known to house a homeless family. While clearing the house, the structure gave way and Ben did not make it out before the collapse.
Ben's sacrifice forever changed our community and brought to light the depth of the needs and help our community truly needs.
The Q Foundations established our Ben Polson Memorial Scholarship to help students with first responder parents attend the school of their choice.
Ben Polson - Lasting Legacy
While our scholarship for those who are helping with the community, we realized that there is much more that is needed.
We have been working tirelessly to create a new hope for the residents and working with those in the community to create NEW housing, small business opportunities, job training, outreach programs, and stabilization needs.
Currently, we have been working with city and state officials, community leaders, and those who live in the North St. Louis community to develop our revitalization in these neglected areas.
Ben's sacrifice is the reason that we strive for all of this.