Former Frederick County Commissioner Mark Hoke passed away Thursday night. Sources tell WFMD News that Hoke was suffering from lung problems.

Mark Hoke served on the Frederick County Board of Commissioners from 1986 to 1990. He served one term as vice president. He also was elected to the board in 1994 and served until 1998.

"I first met Mark when he was vice president of the county commissioners and we were working on the Brunswick Region Plan, as part of the county's comprehensive plan, in the mid 90's," said Rick Weldon, City Administrator, City of Brunswick. "I got to know Mark really well. Then I ran for commissioner in 1998. Mark was a really trusted advisor. He gave me a lot of insight on how to run for office," continued Weldon. "As I look back on all of the things I was fortunate to be able to do, Mark Hoke was one of the few people to help me do all those things," said Weldon.

Hoke was born and educated in Frederick and served as Fort Detrick's 27th Commander from 1983 until his retirement from the Army in 1986. Prior to retirement Colonel Hoke spent 28 years in the Army, serving in key command and staff positions including duty with the organization of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, January 13, 2013, at Keeney & Basford Funeral Home, located on East Church Street, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Funeral services will take place at St. John The Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, located at 116 East 2nd Street, in Frederick, on Monday, January 14, 2013, at 11:00 a.m.

Hoke was 76 years old.