Nicholas Stephen Schempf of Denver, CO, 54, died Tuesday, September 30, 2025, following a hospitalization for sudden cardiac arrest - a complication of his underlying heart disease. He was born on September 25, 1971, in Denver, CO, to Stephen Bryan Schempf and Ann Marie (Gaustad) Schempf.

He graduated from George Washington High School in Denver and briefly attended the University of Colorado in Boulder.

Diagnosed with mental illness in his early twenties, Nick faced many challenges throughout his life. Remarkably, he met each day with resilience and courage. Those who loved him will remember his sense of humor, his compassion for helping others, and his kind nature. As his family often joked, he was "Jeopardy smart" and enjoyed having deep conversations with family, friends, and even strangers. He would often say, "I don't know if you know this, but…" and proceed to share some amazing fact or interesting tidbit. His intelligence allowed him to converse easily on science, nature, religion, philosophy, and other varied subjects. He loved the outdoors, photography, and music. He traveled to Spain in high school, spoke Spanish well, and kept in touch with his host family for more than forty years.

Nick was a beloved grandson, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, nephew, and friend to many. His kind heart and authentic nature touched everyone who knew him. His life reminds us that every person's story is valuable, and that kindness, tolerance, and love matter most of all. In keeping with his generous nature, he gave the gift of life through organ, eye, and tissue donation.

Survivors include his sister, Heidi Schempf of Red Feather Lakes, CO,  former brother-in-law, Stanislav Masloboev of Greeley, CO, his long time girlfriend, Keysha Darling of Denver, CO, an aunt, uncles, nephews, and niece. He was preceded in death by his father (Stephen Schempf), his mother (Ann Schempf), and his grandparents.

Nick's memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2:00 p.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church in Denver 1750 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80220. There will be no visitation. The family will greet relatives and friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Nick's honor be made to Feeding America , a charity that Nick believed in and supported.