Praful Patel

Praful Patel was born on Sunday, February 13, 1949 in Ahmedabad, India to Rambhai and Kamlaben Patel. He lived life simply and always kept a positive attitude. Growing up in his home town of Gada, India, he enjoyed playing outdoors and would recall this fondly on numerous occasions. He helped expand the family business, the first Johnson and Johnson distributorship in all of Gujarat. On June 1st, 1975, he married his soulmate, Kokila. A year later their son, Hetal, was born and three years after that their daughter, Bela, arrived.

In 1983, they left their prosperous life in India for a better life for their children in America. Through hard work and determination he provided for his family and became a successful business owner. With his support and guidance, his son became a global sourcing professional and daughter became a physician.

As a father, he taught his children to be happy with what you have but always pursue your dreams. His characteristics include being extremely religious, patience, building lasting relationships, and his willingness to help. Most people would describe him as a “really good man.”

As with life, all that is created on earth must perish. On Sunday, January 31st, 2016 he passed away peacefully surrounded by his family who loved him very much.

He leaves behind his spouse, Kokila; son, Hetal; daughter, Bela; son-in-law, Alpesh; granddaughter, Aria; and older brother, Rajanikant. It was truly a privilege to have known him, and he will be greatly missed. He will remain in our hearts forever.