Celebrating a century, Nick Hope, a Holocaust survivor, marked his 100th birthday in Calistoga, Northern California surrounded by his loved ones.

The centenarian's remarkable journey of survival through the Holocaust and his unwavering philosophy of forgiveness were commemorated, CBS Sacramento reported.

Beginning of Hope’s Long Journey

Born into a world soon to be fraught with chaos, Nick Hope's survival story began with his enduring the Holodomor as a child, a devastating famine in Ukraine where millions perished. This tragedy was only the first of the many severe challenges he would face early in life.

From Famine to the Holocaust

As a teenager, Hope's challenges soared when he was imprisoned in the Dachau concentration camp during World War II. He described stepping into Dachau as stepping into despair, becoming "not a man but a zero." His time at this notorious camp lasted for over two grueling years.

Liberation and Life Thereafter

The end of the war brought liberation, as American forces swept through Europe, freeing many, including Hope from Dachau. This marked a new beginning for him, one that led him toward healing and building a new life after the Holocaust.

Building A New Life In America

Post-liberation, Hope found love with Nadia, another survivor of the Holocaust. The couple initially settled down in Germany. Their journey of rebuilding led them to Northern California's Calistoga, where Hope would go on to make a profound impact.

Hope’s Legacy in Napa Valley

In Calistoga, Hope not only built a family but also a robust career as a builder in the Napa Valley area, crafting structures until the age of 97. His work ethic and resilience shined through in his professional achievements and his personal life, establishing a legacy of strength and endurance.

Family Life Grounded in Forgiveness

Hope’s philosophy of life is deeply rooted in forgiveness, a lesson he attributes to his long, fulfilling life. He often reflects on his grandfather’s advice to remain patient, a virtue that he believes guided him through decades of challenges and triumphs.

Celebrating a Century of Survival

Hope’s 100th birthday was a festive affair, celebrated broadly with his three children, including his son George, and a host of friends and family. George spoke of his father’s incredible journey and his ability to not dwell on the past but to keep looking forward. "Just keep going," he quoted his father’s famous words, emphasizing the spirit that drove Nick to continue forward despite his past.

Media Spotlight on Hope

In May 2024, CBS13 aired a compelling three-part series titled "What Hope Can Do," detailing the life and times of Nick Hope. This series brought his story of resilience and forgiveness into the homes of many, inspiring viewers with his philosophy of life and the rich history he survived.

Ongoing Contribution and Commemoration

Even as he reached this incredible milestone, the Hope family looks ahead to an important commemoration. They seek to raise funds through an online fundraiser to send Nick back to Dachau for the 80th commemoration of the camp's liberation, symbolizing a journey of remembrance and teaching for future generations.

Hope’s Philosophy: Forgive and Be Forgiven

Reflecting on his longevity, Nick Hope shared, "It helps me to live a whole life, to 100 years old. God says, 'Forgive and be forgiven,'" a testament to his deep-seated belief in forgiving as a way to peace and personal longevity. This outlook not only shaped his hundred years but also promised to influence others through stories of his life and the echoes of his deeds.

A Testament to Resilience and Humanity

Nick Hope's story is not just about survival but about how an individual can transform profound suffering into a powerful lesson in resilience and humanity. His 100th birthday celebrations articulate the respect and love he’s earned and the impact of his message on those around him.

Conclusion

Nick Hope, a survivor of the Holodomor and the Holocaust, celebrated his 100th birthday with a profound sense of peace achieved through forgiveness. His journey from facing the darkest episodes of human history to building a celebrated life in Napa Valley and shaping a family grounded in resilience and forgiveness reflects an extraordinary century of hope, endurance, and humanity. As the family prepares for yet another poignant milestone, the legacy of Nick Hope continues to inspire and guide not just into remembering the past but forging a future grounded in compassion and understanding.