Fire Chief
David Pratte is the Fire Chief of Big River/ Bonne Terre Fire department. He and his wife Lorri have been married for 22 years. He has 3 children, 11 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. His wife and him attend Harvest Christian Centre in Park Hills, MO. He enjoys tinkering with his antique fire trucks and being a historian for our local fire service. Most of his spare time during warmer weather is spent at his "fire museum", with a pit fire, sharing stories about the fire service and it's history.
He has been a member of the fire service for some 60 years. It has always been his goal to serve and protect not only the Bonne Terre community, but our surrounding communities as well. He has served as Fire Chief for several fire departments. He currently holds a position as a board member for the St. Francois County 911 Communications Center. He has been voted as the President of The Ozark Firefighters Association for the past 20 years. This organization provides monthly training and communication between several fire departments encompassing seven surrounding counties. In past years he had the opportunity to serve many positions in the St. Francois County Chapter of Backstoppers.
One of the many duties he provides to our community are: fire prevention, public appearances with fire trucks and firefighters to our local schools, daycares, nursing homes, and churches.
He is honored to lead one of the most professional groups of Volunteer Firefighters, who have been trained to serve our community, as well as the surrounding communities when called upon with Courage, Dedication, and Honor.
Assistant Chief
Allen Stegall with 44 years of dedicated service to the fire department, Allen has built a distinguished career that spans across both emergency response and technological innovation. Currently serving as the Assistant Chief for the fire department and IT Director for St. Francois County 911 Communication Center, he plays a crucial role in integrating state-of-the-art technology into emergency communication systems, ensuring that first responders are equipped with the tools they need to perform at their best during high-pressure situations.
Over the years, Allen has worked in various capacities, starting as a firefighter and working up to leadership roles, including overseeing IT systems critical to emergency operations. His vast experience in both firefighting and technology has positioned Allen as a key figure in improving the efficiency and reliability of emergency services. He is passionate about ensuring that new technologies continue to support public safety, making a difference in the lives of both first responders and the communities they serve.
Outside of work, Allen is a proud family member. Married for 37 years, to Teresa Stegall, they are proud parents of one child and grandparents to two wonderful grandchildren. Allen values family time and enjoys sharing life lessons and experiences with the next generation.
With a balance of technical expertise, leadership in the field, and a deep sense of community, he continues to make significant contributions to the fire department and the broader emergency services system, while also enjoying cherished moments with family.
Captain
Keith Vaughn has been a resident of St. Francois County for 54 years. 50+ year member of Labor Local 110. He retired after 39 years of construction.
He joined Big River Fire Protection in 2007.
Captain
Daniel Mackley is a dedicated Fire Captain with 44 years of service to Big River Fire Protection, where he has consistently demonstrated leadership, expertise, and a deep commitment to the safety of his community. His extensive career has been built on hard work and a passion for firefighting, making a significant impact on his department and the people he serves.
In addition to his role as a Fire Captain, Daniel works full-time as a maintenance worker for the Sheriff's Department, where his skills in ensuring the proper functioning of facilities and equipment contribute to the efficiency of law enforcement operations.
Outside of work, he is a proud father of four children and a loving grandfather to two grandchildren. Family plays a central role in his life, and he values the time spent with his loved ones, balancing his demanding career with his personal life.
Captain
Chad Brenneke is a dedicated firefighter captain with 25 years of service, having begun his career as a junior firefighter. Over the years, he has honed his skills and leadership abilities, now serving as a captain within his firehouse. In addition to his firefighting duties, Chad has spent 19 years working several jobs as a state employee. He currently works as an Emergency Response Operator for the State of Missouri, based in St. Louis.
Outside of work, Chad enjoys a variety of activities, including spending time at the firehouse, camping, playing golf, and outdoor cooking. His passion for both serving the community and enjoying the outdoors highlights his commitment to teamwork and family, both at work and in his personal life.
Captain
Ben Bailey is a dedicated leader with over 29 years of service volunteering, he has risen through the ranks to become Captain. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to protecting and serving his community, responding to countless emergencies, and providing mentorship to younger firefighters. His extensive experience includes training, incident command, and leadership in a wide range of emergency situations.
In addition to his volunteer firefighting role, Captain Bailey is the full-time Superintendent at Hawn State Park, where he oversees park operations, resource management, and public safety. His ability to balance these responsibilities speaks to his exceptional work ethic, leadership, and passion for public service. Whether it’s managing the complexities of park operations or leading a team in the field during a fire emergency, he approaches every challenge with a calm, strategic mindset.
Outside of his professional roles, Captain Bailey has been happily married for 20 years to Tiffany. Together, they share a strong bond built on trust and support, and he credits his family for their unwavering support throughout his career in both fire service and park management.
Captain Bailey continues to serve with honor, passion, and dedication, leaving a lasting impact on both the fire department and the community he works to protect.
Captain
Josh Gossett is a dedicated family man and community servant who has devoted over two decades of his life to public service. He and his wife Laura, share a loving perntership and are proud parents of 3 wonderful children. They also love and the joy of being grandparents to their delightful grandson.
Josh began his public service in 2009 after a life-changing event where his wife and one of his daughters were involved in a car accident. He witnessed the remarkable efforts of the Big River Fire Protection as they rescued his wife and daughter. Inspired by this event and dedication of the first responders he decided to join as a volunteer. Over the past 16 years he has worked tirelessly to thrive witin the department, earning the position of Captain.
In addition to his volunteering firefighting role, Captain Gossett is a full-time Deputy Sheriff for St. Francois County. Showcasing his passion for helping others and making a positive impact. Hie life reflects a balance of family devotion and service to others, earning respect from the community and admiration in both his personal and professional endeavors. He would not change a thing about his journey.
Lieutenant
Rodney Smith is a dedicated Lieutenant Firefighter with 48 years of service. Throughout his career, he has earned a reputation for his leadership, skill, and dedication to the safety and well-being of the community. His wealth of experience has made him a valued mentor to both colleagues and new recruits in the department.
In addition to his firefighting duties, Rodney works full-time as an Emergency Response Operator for the State of Missouri, in St. Louis. He has also served as an adjunct instructor for several years, imparting his extensive knowledge and hands-on experience to the next generation of first responders.
Outside of his professional roles, he has been married to his wife Ila J (Jeannie) for 39 years. Together, they have two children and five grandchildren, and family remains at the heart of everything he does. Rodney is deeply committed to balancing his rewarding career with his cherished family life.
Lieutenant
Zach Trentment with 14 years of dedicated service in the fire department, Zach has built a reputation for commitment, leadership, and a deep passion for helping others. As a Lieutenant, he leads with integrity and a focus on teamwork, ensuring that every response is swift, efficient, and executed with the highest level of professionalism. Zach has faced countless emergencies throughout his career, always driven by the goal of making a positive impact on the community.
Zach entered the fire service with a simple but powerful motivation—to help others. His unwavering dedication to community service has guided his journey in the fire department, where he has continually worked to make a difference in the lives of others.
Outside of work, Zach is a proud family person. Married with two children, he balances the demands of being a firefighter and a dedicated parent. Zach enjoys spending quality time with family, instilling the values of service and community in his kids, and cherishing moments together.
With a heart for service and a commitment to both the fire department and family, Zach continues to make a lasting difference on and off the line.
Firefighter
Emily Boyer is a seasoned firefighter with 17 years of dedicated service in the fire service industry. With 10 of those years spent as a paramedic, she brings a wealth of medical expertise to her firefighting role. Emily is deeply committed to her profession, always striving to provide the best care and assistance to those in need.
When she's off duty, Emily enjoys spending quality time with her family, as well as outdoor adventures like camping and riding side-by-sides. Her passion for her work is matched only by her love for creating lasting memories with her loved ones.
Firefighter
Carry Stout
Firefighter
J.D. Ray started in the fire service in 1997 at Goose Creek Lake Fire Department. In 1998 J.D. moved to Bonne Terre and joined Big River Fire Department. From there J.D. went to Mineral Area College Fire Academy and received his Fire Fighter 1 and 2 as well as his EMT Basic license. At Big River, J.D. has served in the roles of Lieutenant, Captain and Training Officer. J.D. went on to get his Paramedic License and work as a Career Firefighter/Paramedic for the Webster Groves Fire Department in St. Louis.
While working at Webster Groves, J.D. obtained an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science as well as his state certifications for Fire Officer 2 and Fire Instructor 2. J.D. served in the roll of Shop Steward for Webster, as well as served as a fill in acting captain. Also, while at Webster Groves, J.D. worked part time at the St. Louis County Fire Academy as a Fire Instructor.
J.D. started completing high angle rope recues while working on the ladder truck at Webster Groves. This led to him and his wife starting Above All Tower Climbing. J.D. obtained his certification as a Tower Climbing and Rescue Instructor.
J.D. presently works as a Deputy Sheriff for the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department while he and his wife also still run the tower company and volunteer for Big River/Bonne Terre Fire Department.
Firefighter
Doug Calvert is a dedicated and experienced professional with 21 years of service as a firefighter and 33 years as a law enforcement officer. Throughout his career, Doug has shown an unwavering commitment to serving and protecting his community, always putting the safety and well-being of others first. His passion for service extends beyond his professional life, as he is deeply involved in his community. Doug is the proud father of one daughter, who is his greatest source of joy and pride. With a wealth of experience and a heart for helping others, Doug Calvert exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated public servant.
Firefighter
Shama Ray is an experienced firefighter with 27 years of service, bringing a wealth of knowledge and skill from her extensive background as both a volunteer and career firefighter. Over the course of her career, Shama has made six clinical saves and successfully performed one rescue from a fully involved structure, showcasing her expertise in high-pressure situations and her dedication to saving lives.
In addition to her firefighting career, Shama is the owner and operator of Renew Tower Construction, LLC, where she works at heights of up to 500 feet, specializing in high-angle rescue operations. Her experience in working at extreme heights has given her a unique skill set that complements her firefighting work, particularly in rescue operations and technical rescues.
As a certified CPR and high-angle rescue instructor, she is committed to sharing her knowledge with others, training fellow responders to ensure that they are well-equipped to handle the most challenging and dangerous situations. Her passion for both firefighting and technical rescue makes her a valuable asset to his department and the community.
Firefighter
Serena Ray is a dedicated Junior Firefighter currently in her first year with the Big River/Bonne Terre Fire Department. She is already making a strong impact as she works to develop her skills and contribute to the team. Outside of firefighting, Serena is highly active in sports, participating in cross country, wrestling, and track, where her determination and discipline shine both on and off the field.
An honor roll student, she is committed to both her academic and extracurricular pursuits, balancing her studies with her passion for emergency response. With a clear vision for her future, she intends to build a long-term career in the emergency responder field, drawing on her experience and dedication to helping others.
In addition to her work as a Junior Firefighter, Serena serves as a Lieutenant with the St. Francois County Explorers Program, where she continues to develop her leadership skills and gain valuable hands-on experience in the field.
Firefighter
Gary Boyer is a dedicated firefighter with 21 years of service in the fire service. Over the years, he has built a reputation for his commitment to both his team and the community he serves. Outside of work, Gary values quality time with his family. He enjoys camping and riding side-by-sides with his wife and son, cherishing these moments of adventure and togetherness. His passion for his work and his family underscores his balanced approach to life, always striving to make a positive impact both at home and on the job.
Firefighter
Andrew Hopkins is the Bioenvironmental Engineering Superintendent and a Flight & Operational Medical Technician at the
Andrew, originally from Indiana, is a Firefighter/EMT and joined the fire service in 2005. When he moved from Indiana to Missouri in 2023, he joined Big River/ Bonne Terre Fire Protection bringing 18 years of experience with him where he is currently still serving.
Firefighter
Alivia Gossett is a dedicated firefighter who has been serving her community for the past 7 months. Motivated by a strong desire to make a difference, Alivia joined the fire service to help those in need and contribute to the safety and well-being of her community.
Though relatively new to the department, Alivia's passion for service, quick learning, and commitment to teamwork have already made a positive impact. She approaches every call with a sense of duty and determination, knowing that each moment is an opportunity to make a real difference in someone's life.
Outside of her work as a firefighter, Alivia is driven by the values of service, compassion, and community, always looking for ways to support others both in and out of the firehouse. She looks forward to growing in her role and continuing to help others in any way she can.
Firefighter
Robert Martin is a dedicated firefighter who has been in the fire service for 2 years. He began serving the our community for the past 6 months. Although he is relatively new to the fire service, Robert has quickly proven to be a committed and hardworking member of the team. Starting his career with a passion for helping others, he has already gained valuable experience responding to emergency situations, participating in training exercises, and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.
Firefighter
Bart Geldigan brings 16 years of experience in the fire service, including 5 years as a dispatcher for fire and EMS in the City of St. Louis. His career has been shaped by a diverse background, starting as a police officer for 8 years before transitioning into the fire service, where he found his true calling.
Throughout his years in the fire service, Bart has gained a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of emergency response from multiple perspectives, including law enforcement, dispatch, and firefighting. His experience allows him to approach every situation with a calm, thoughtful demeanor and a focus on collaboration and efficiency.
Outside of his work as a firefighter and dispatcher, Bart is passionate about woodworking, specializing in building cabinets. This hands-on craft allows him to unwind while using his creativity and precision, much like the care he brings to his work in the firehouse.
With a commitment to public safety and a diverse skill set, Bart continues to make a difference in his community and strives to mentor the next generation of first responders.
Firefighter
Logan Stephens is a dedicated firefighter with 3 years of experience in the fire service, and he has spent the past month and four days serving with the Big River/Bonne Terre Fire Department. Driven by a strong desire to help his community, Logan joined the fire service to be there for others in times of need and to make a positive impact on the safety and well-being of those around him.
Although relatively new to the Big River/Bonne Terre Fire Department, Logan brings with him a solid foundation of experience and an unwavering commitment to his role. His focus on teamwork, learning, and serving with integrity has already made him a valued member of the department.
Outside of his work as a firefighter, Logan is passionate about giving back to his community and continues to grow both personally and professionally in the fire service. He looks forward to the opportunity to continue helping those in need and making a difference every day.
Firefighter
Daniel Ewin
Firefighter
Leon Peterson is a seasoned firefighter with 20 years of experience, who has spent his entire life in the local community. His career has been shaped by a deep-rooted commitment to service and the environment, having previously retired as a Conservation Resource Technician. During his time as a technician, he spent many years teaching and actively fighting wildland fires across the state, honing his skills and knowledge in fire prevention, suppression, and safety.
Growing up locally, he has a unique understanding of the area he serves, and his dedication to protecting both the people and the natural resources of his community has been a driving force in his career. His work in wildland firefighting, combined with his hands-on teaching experience, has made him a valued mentor and expert in his field.
Now, as a firefighter, Leon continues to serve his community with the same passion and dedication, leveraging his diverse experience in wildland fire management and education to ensure the safety and well-being of those around him.
Firefighter
Donald LaPlante is a dedicated firefighter with 10 years of experience in the fire service, having started his journey as a junior firefighter. Over the years, Donald has worked his way up, gaining invaluable experience and skills that have shaped him into a reliable and passionate member of the department.
Driven by a strong sense of duty, Donald has always been motivated by the desire to serve and protect his community. His early start as a junior firefighter sparked his lifelong commitment to helping others, and he continues to demonstrate that commitment every day through his work on the front lines.
Outside of his work as a firefighter, Donald is a proud parent to one child. He cherishes his family time and works hard to be a positive role model for his child, instilling the same values of service and dedication that have guided his own career.
With a decade of experience and a heart dedicated to service, Donald continues to make a lasting impact both in the firehouse and at home.
Firefighter
Lee "Lately" Carrow with 15 years of dedicated service in the fire industry, Lee has worked tirelessly to protect and serve the community. Beginning as a junior firefighter, he quickly rose through the ranks thanks to a passion for the job, strong work ethic, and commitment to the safety of others. Throughout his career, Lee has gained invaluable experience in responding to emergencies, managing complex rescue operations, and leading fire safety education initiatives.
Firefighter
Matt Price with 16 years of service in emergency response and law enforcement, Matt has built a distinguished career dedicated to public safety and community support. Starting out as a firefighter, he has gained extensive experience across various aspects of emergency services, including firefighting, search and rescue, and hazardous materials response. He currently serve as a full-time deputy sheriff, using his expertise in law enforcement to protect and serve the community.
In addition to his work as a deputy, Matt is also a part-time police officer with the City of Leadwood, further extending his service to multiple roles in ensuring the safety and security of the area.
A passionate advocate for first responders, he has been an active board member of the local Backstoppers chapter for 4 years, helping to support families of fallen and injured emergency workers. His dedication to the cause reflects a deep commitment to the well-being of his fellow responders and the community at large.
Outside of service, Matt has a personal interest in model trains, maintaining an extensive collection that reflects a long-standing hobby. He enjoy sharing this passion with others and appreciate the calm and precision that model train building offers.
Whether it’s through emergency response, law enforcement, or community engagement, Matt remains committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those around him.
