Michael Eugene Hope

Michael Eugene Hope, a beloved husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away at his home in Craig, Colorado on the evening of June 7, 2026. Michael was surrounded by his wife, children, and faithful companion Dave (the dog).

Born on September 13, 1950, in Lakeport, California, Michael was the eldest child of Harley Ray and Ollie Belle “Smokey” (Hughett) Hope. He was raised alongside his younger siblings, Nancy and Patrick. The family moved several times during his childhood and settled in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. In 1969, Michael graduated from Steamboat Springs High School.

Michael eventually relocated to Craig, Colorado where he met the love of his life, Suzanne (Okabayashi). They married in 1989 and spent 42 loving years as partners and parents to their children Christopher, Nicole, Erick, and Samantha.

Michael was a hard worker and was employed as a logger, truck driver, and fixer of all things throughout his lifetime. He spent much of his life in the outdoors, target shooting, hunting, fishing, camping, and exploring with his dog, Dave. Michael enjoyed reloading bullets and working on his vehicles. He was an avid reader of history, art, and politics. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family.

No words can truly capture the essence of who Michael was. He was funny and had a sarcastic and witty sense of humor that he ensured to instill in all his “smartass” children. He had a strong spirit marked by kindness. A quiet observer, Michael loved to listen to the gossip (but never partook), and he gave the most ethical solid life advice. Michael’s steadfast determination, stubborn nature, grit, and devoted love for his family carried him through his final moments on earth.

Michael is survived by his wife, Suzanne Hope; dog Dave; children Christopher Hope (Carriebeth), Nicole Shatz, Erick Hope (Sadie), and Samantha Hope (Brandon Brown); grandchildren Milo Hope, Dante Hope, Shia Borgsmiller, Logan Brown, Lindsey Brown, and Leif Brown; sister Nancy Hopkins; brother Patrick Hope; nephew Scott Klein (Marybeth); great-niece Andrea Klein; great-nephew Joshua Klein; close friends Jane Lewis, Todd and Chase Hampton; and Michael’s hospice nurse, Andrea Wheat, who provided the utmost compassionate care for Michael during his final months.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Harley and Ollie Belle “Smokey” Hope; son Jason Blake; grandson Celestino Shatz; brother in-law Mark Hopkins; grandparents, and numerous aunts and uncles.

In Michael's own words, “love you, bye.”