Hugh Douglas Blomeke

Hugh Douglas Blomeke, age 76, died on January 31, 2026, at the Grassland Mountain Preserve in Marshall, North Carolina, following a UTV accident on the mountain behind his home. Hugh was born on February 9, 1949, in Atlanta, Georgia, to John and Margaret Blomeke, and grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee, where he attended Central High School. He met his future wife, Kaye, in 1967 while attending Auburn University, prior to his appointment to the United States Naval Academy, Class of 1972. Hugh proudly served 20 years in the United States Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer, retiring at the rank of Commander. His distinguished service included duty as Executive Officer aboard the USS Bowen, as well as service during the First Gulf War as a member of the Seventh Fleet staff. He served his country with honor, humility, and steadfast leadership. Following his naval career, Hugh spent 25 years as a financial services professional with First Command Financial Services, serving families throughout the Hampton Roads, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. areas. Hugh is survived by his wife, of almost 53 years, Kaye Swift Blomeke; their son, John Blomeke, and daughter-in-law, Bethanie Swendsen Blomeke; his cherished grandchildren, Clare, Aspen, and Liberty Blomeke; his sister, Linda Blomeke Hurst; and brother-in-law, Don Hurst. An American patriot and faithful follower of Christ, Hugh was known for his cheerful generosity, encouraging spirit, and gentle humor. He consistently lifted others up and loved deeply. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a grandfather beyond measure.  A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:00 am at Mynatt Funeral Home, Fountain City, 2829 Rennoc Road, Knoxville, Tennessee. Service will be live streamed via YouTube: YouTube.com/MynattFuneralHome. A funeral procession will depart at 11:00 a.m. to East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 2200 E. Governor John Sevier Highway, Knoxville, Tennessee, where full military honors and final farewell will be rendered at 12:30 p.m.