I have had TWA and others put me up overnight when it is thier fault. However, if I choose to take a flight which I know will end up resulting me in staying overnight, I pay. Also with a free ticket, there are more risks (with any airline) as they will not usually move you to another airline. That is one of the disadvantages in flying with an airline that only has 1 or 2 flights to your destination when you have a free ticket.

Not sure of circumstances, but if they took flight to STL knowing they would likely miss connection - I take it is the passenger decision and passenger pays. Also, I bet 90% of passengeres of cancelled flights never get calls, regardless of airline. I know I raely get calls, so not unusal. Ask United or Delta passengers.