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Always With Hope: A Memoir of Resilience and Reflection
Welcome
This is the official website of Always With Hope, the inspiring life story of Lyudmila Oparina. From postwar Siberia to the heights of personal and professional triumph, this memoir chronicles the journey of a woman who navigated hardship, change, and hope with grace and strength. Dive into her story, explore rare family photos, and discover the heart behind this powerful legacy.
Friends & family reflections
“A Remarkable Soul”
Our dear friend Lyudmila Oparina. She was a radiant, kind, wise, joyful, and talented woman.
We—her friends from the early days of our careers at the Angarsk Petrochemical Complex—felt the depth of her character in everything she did. From her first role as a compressor operator at the coal gasification plant, to her work producing new fuel types, and finally to her respected leadership position within the plant’s management, Lyudmila contributed meaningfully to the legacy of this industrial giant in Eastern Siberia.
Outside of work, we shared meaningful moments together—cultural outings were her great joy.
The light and memory of Lyudmila will remain with us forever.
Angelina Eliseevna Bobyleva
Polina Alexeevna Stepakova
“A Lifetime of Friendship”
Meeting Misha brought back memories of my youth and the beautiful years we shared.
Hugging Misha felt like touching you, Lyusik. When he came to visit from America, he brought with him your warmth and eternal love.
Dear friend, more than 50 years of deep friendship tied us together. We never once argued—only shared warmth, advice, and guidance. We raised our children with those same values. Not even all sisters experience a bond as close as ours.
Words here cannot capture it all, but the memories are alive.
Lyusik, I can’t believe you’re gone—you live in our hearts. Sleep peacefully, Lyusik, says your Dusik.
And your son Misha—you raised him with dignity. He is your legacy.
Years may pass, and if he ever has a daughter, I know she’ll be a little Lyudochka—with your voice, your spark, and the same joy and strength that lit up our lives.
Oh, what a time it was!
Lyuda, eternal memory to you—people like you are needed by God, too.
Your soul is in the heavens. Sleep in peace.
In your lifetime, you gave so much goodness and warmth to others.
Evdokia Vanyarkina-Bazhenova
Angarsk, Russia, June 6, 2007
“You Live in My Heart”
My most beloved, loyal, and kind friend has left me too soon—returned to the arms of the Lord. He welcomed His daughter with love.
You were an optimist in life, always handling hardship with grace. You treated people with warmth and respect, and they responded in kind.
We live on as long as we are remembered—and in my heart, you live forever.
Your son Misha has immortalized your memory in a heartfelt autobiography. Thank you for raising such a loving son.
I am grateful that fate brought us together—that we shared joys and sorrows, even across countries and continents.
Isolda Bazhenova
Angarsk, Russia, June, 2007
“A Shining Example”
My dearest Lyusenka! You were always a cherished friend to me and to Svetlana. I promise you, for as long as I live on this Earth, I will pray for Misha. Now that he no longer has a mother, I will be that for him—just as you wished.
Inna Shiyanova
Vancouver, WA, 2006
“A Sister of the Spirit”
Dearest Lyuda, you were a model of kindness and inner strength. You were like an older sister to me—you became the mother I no longer had.
Lena Vozheiko-Wheaton
Vancouver, WA, 2007
Always With Hope 