Family of Ryan Erickson to receive assistance from Front Line Foundation
May 27—BLOMKEST
— The Front Line Foundation, an organization that provides assistance to the families of first responders who have died in the line of duty, have announced the family of Ryan Erickson will receive the organization's first death benefits of 2022.
Erickson, a 45-year veteran of the Blomkest Fire Department, was killed on May 12, when an empty grain bin collapsed on him when he was heading out to respond to the severe weather that was impacting the area. He left behind a wife, two children and four grandchildren, along with other family members.
"I've spend time reading about and reflecting on Ryan's life of service. It is inspirational to hear that he joined the fire department at age 18 and spend his entire adult life serving his community," said Suzanne Holt, TFLF president and CEO in a press release announcing the granting of the funds. "We are humbled to be able to support the family of this selfless hero after he paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting his community."
TFLF was founded in late 2018, and to date has paid out more than $300,000 in financial assistance to the families of Minnesota law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs and members of the National Guard who were killed in the line of duty. The foundation also helps purchase tactical equipment for first responders and supports preparedness training for safety officers in hospitals, schools and places of worship.
"We are very honored to be able to help families when they need it most," Holt said. "A tragedy like this gives us pause to remember all the sacrifices our first responders make every day."
