Stephen Allen Blomme

Stephen Allen Blomme, age 74, passed peacefully following a cardiac event on September 21, 2025, while enjoying a ride through the beautiful White Mountains near his summer home in Greer, Arizona. Steve was intelligent, independent, compassionate and observing. He possessed a tenacity that was razor-focused and a quirky sense of humor. To his family Steve was a remarkable husband, loving father, devoted grandfather and thoughtful in-law. To his friends he was loyal, caring and fun loving. Within his communities Steve was a humanitarian who committed over thirty-five years to improving the lives of disabled children. He served as a special education teacher, wrestling coach, sponsor of a high school chess club and youth mentor. Steve spent thirty years as a Special Education Work Experience Coordinator and Consultant for the Grant Wood Area Education Agency in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. His work related to transition planning for handicapped youth remains highly regarded. Steve's passion for automobiles and racing included restoring cars as well as racing and building engines for drag and stock cars. The pinnacle of his racing career was winning the 1992 One Lap of America (Cannonball Run) Cross Country Race. Steve valued being in nature enjoying activities such as hiking, geocaching, camping, kayaking and ATVing. He was an avid fisherman whose fish were ALMOST as big as his tales. A "closet pyromaniac" at heart, Steve demonstrated the ability to stage professional-quality firework shows. When he celebrated July 4th on his sisters-in-law's farm in Wisconsin, strangers lined the country roads to watch. Steve loved travel and enjoyed trips across the country, Mexico and Canada. He and Suzanne continued exploring the country in their RV following their retirement to Gold Canyon, Arizona. Steve was born in Oelwein, Iowa to Henry S. and Phyllis I. (Brauer) Blomme. He graduated from Oelwein High School, Ellsworth Community College and Truman University (Kirksville) earning an MSE from University of Central Missouri (Warrensburg) Steve is survived by his wife of 52 years, Suzanne (Van Gorp) Blomme; his sons Jason (Laura) and Justin (Alexis). His grandchildren include Sam, Mathew, Phoenix, Ledger, Jax and Aubrey. He is further survived by his sisters-in-law Patricia Van Gorp and Bev Mulligan. Steve and Suzanne appreciated the visits, support and laughter of their friends throughout the years since his stroke and subsequent health challenges. They extend heartfelt gratitude to those who stood by him. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be directed to Camp Courageous in Monticello, Iowa. To Steve we say, "It was a good ride. Thanks for sharing it with us! You will be missed."