Evan Summers – The Never-Ending Summer of Justin Bloome
For many campers and counselors who pass through the gates of YMCA Camp Eberhart, the experience leaves a mark. But few left as lasting and joyful an imprint as Justin Bloome.
Evan Summers, a former camper, counselor, and sailing program head, remembers his 14 summers at Camp Eberhart with deep affection—but no memory shines brighter than his time with Justin. “He was the camper everyone knew—not because he was the fastest or most athletic, but because he had this undeniable energy,” said Evan. “He was a prankster, a showman, and the heart of camp in a lot of ways.”
Justin began as a spirited camper and later became a counselor known for legendary hugs, offbeat humor, and a deep devotion to his cabin kids. He wore mismatched tie-dye shirts and Chuck Taylors, carried the energy of a professional wrestling heel, and somehow brought everyone together through sheer charisma. “He envisioned himself as the heel of camp,” Evan said, referring to the theatrical villain role in wrestling. “But everyone loved him anyway. That was his magic.”
Whether leading archery sessions, orchestrating elaborate pranks (like relocating canoes to the changing rooms), or bringing the house down at closing campfires with his animated rendition of Tarzan, Justin turned every moment into a memory. “Being in his cabin was an experience,” Evan shared. “He was intentional. He’d plan the whole week down to the details because he wanted to give each kid something they’d never forget.”
Justin’s presence extended across generations. Older staff remembered him as the kid who grew up at camp—there for all nine weeks every summer—while younger campers knew him as the counselor who made them feel seen, safe, and entertained. His influence created ripples across decades of Camp Eberhart life.
In 2020, Justin passed away, leaving behind a camp full of memories and a community that continues to feel the loss deeply. “The grief hit differently,” Evan said. “We didn’t get to mourn together in person because it was the middle of the pandemic. But every time we share a story about Justin, he comes alive again in those memories.”
Today, a part of Camp Eberhart’s Nature area is dedicated to Justin’s memory—a tribute following in Justin’s all-encompassing and embracing nature. “He’ll always be part of this place,” Evan said. “Through that memorial, through the stories, through the energy that still lingers.”
When asked how Justin should be remembered, Evan smiled through the emotion: “Justin Bloome was a never-ending summer. And anyone lucky enough to know him will carry a piece of that summer forever.”
Help Us Continue to Honor Justin’s Legacy — and Create Lifelong Memories
Camp Eberhart has always been more than a place — it’s a home away from home, a launching pad for lifelong friendships, and a stage for unforgettable stories. Justin Bloome embodied everything special about Camp: joy, energy, mischief, connection, and heart.
Justin’s hugs, humor, and legendary campfire performances still echo in the memories of those lucky enough to know him. His impact as both camper and counselor reminds us just how much one person can shape the lives of many.
