Honoring Nick Hope: A Hero’s Final Chapter

Honoring Nick Hope: A Hero’s Final Chapter – Help Us Lay Him to Rest & Share His Story

It is with great sorrow, yet deep gratitude, that we share the passing of Nick Hope (Nikolai Xoprenko), a devoted Christian, a survivor of history’s darkest moments, and a man whose unwavering faith inspired all who knew him. At 101 years old, on March 10, 2025, Nick took his final breath, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of survival, faith, and forgiveness.

Nick’s story was never about wealth or material success—it was about the richness of faith, resilience, and the unshakable belief that God’s hand was always upon him. He spent his life sharing this message with everyone he met:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart—He will never leave your sight.”

A Life of Unimaginable Trials & Unshakable Faith

Nick’s life was a testament to God’s miracles. Born in Ukraine, he survived the Holodomor famine of 1933, where millions, including his two youngest brothers, perished under Stalin’s brutal regime. In 1942, he was taken by the Nazis and forced into slave labor, later imprisoned in Dachau Concentration Camp, enduring years of torture, starvation, and brutality. When the Americans liberated the camp in 1945, he weighed only 80 pounds—but he had survived.

Despite witnessing unspeakable horrors, Nick chose forgiveness. Even when he encountered one of his former SS captors years later, he did not seek revenge. Instead, he extended his hand in forgiveness, embodying the love and mercy of Christ.

Nick immigrated to the United States in 1961, seeking a life of freedom, faith, and purpose. He became a proud American citizen, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and a builder of Calistoga, California, contributing to the early stages of the town’s development. He built not just homes, but a legacy of strength, kindness, and hope.

Why We Need Your Help

Nick never sought financial wealth, and in his final years, he faced significant medical expenses. As we mourn his passing, we are now left with the weight of unpaid medical bills, hospital treatments, and the costs of his burial.

We are asking for your support to cover these expenses, ensuring that Nick is laid to rest with the dignity and honor he deserves. Funds will go toward:

•Outstanding Medical & Hospital Bills

•Funeral & Burial Costs

•Preserving His Life Story in a Book

Nick dreamed of writing a book—a testimony to God’s miracles and the events that shaped his life. A story of survival, faith, and the power of forgiveness. Though he is no longer here to finish it himself, we are committed to making this dream a reality. Your contributions will not only help us settle his final expenses but will also allow his story to live on and inspire generations to come.

A Final Call to Those Who Loved and Admired Nick

Nick Hope’s life was a beacon of strength, perseverance, and unwavering faith. Now, in this final chapter, we ask for your support—just as he spent his life supporting, teaching, and inspiring others.

If his story touched your heart, if his message of faith and forgiveness moved you, please consider contributing. Every donation, no matter the amount, brings us closer to honoring him properly and ensuring that his legacy lives on.

If you cannot give financially, we ask that you share this fundraiser so that others who were inspired by Nick can join us in this mission.

Thank you for your generosity, love, and support. May we carry Nick’s message forward—to trust in the Lord, to forgive, and to always, always have hope.

With gratitude,

George Hope & the Hope Family