Navnitbhai "Sarabhai" Patel

Obituary for Navnitbhai “Sarabhai” Patel It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Navnitbhai "Sarabhai" Patel, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who departed this life on March 13, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on May 1, 1955, in Simli, India, Navnitbhai was a man of remarkable intellect and unwavering dedication, excelling in Mathematics and Science during his academic journey. He proudly earned a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and commenced his professional career as a marketing manager at Hindustan Tractor (now Mahindra Tractor). Sarabhai's marriage to Pushpaben Patel, arranged by his father, was an unintended consequence of his father's search for a wife for Sarabhai's older brother. Upon fining a wife for his older brother, Bhailal discovered she had a sister suitable for Sarabhai. The couples shared a double wedding and the marriage blossomed into a lasting partnership filled with love and mutual support beginning a remarkable journey together. As devoted partners, they built a beautiful life and a loving family. In the early 1990s, Sarabhai took the bold step of establishing his own farm equipment dealership in Vadodara, India. He managed this enterprise successfully for two decades, earning the respect of his community and peers. Upon retiring, Sarabhai returned to his roots, developing a deep passion for gardening that echoed his father’s occupation as a farmer. Sarabhai was preceded in death by his father, Bhailal, and a sister, Dharmista. He is survived by his wife, Pushpaben Patel of St. Augustine; son, Sujan "Sam" Patel and his wife Bhakti of St. Augustine; daughter, Kashmira Ray and her husband Mitesh of Germany; his mother, Savita Patel of India; sisters, Champa Patel of Maryland and Usha Patel and her husband Jayesh of India; and brothers, Dinesh Patel and his wife Jaya of India and Ashok Pate and his wife Meena of New Jersey, as well as his brother-in-law, Chipranjan Patel. He is also survived by his loving grandchildren, Misha Ray, Dhruvi Ray, Krupa Ray, Sreeya Ray, Maahi Patel and Yuvrai "Yuvi" Patel. His family and friends will remember him for his intellect, calm demeanor and kindness, and the love he bestowed upon them. A funeral service to honor Navnitbhai Patel’s life will be held at 11 am on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at St. Johns Family Funeral Home. Friends, family, and community members are invited to pay their respects and celebrate the life of a truly remarkable man. Those unable to attend can view the service live-streamed at https://iframe.dacast.com/live/2a7a09ae1c0559a83ef537e05e6a14a6/2aae7d5f-98fd-a9e6-32a7-b774547cf42c. St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Navnitbhai "Sarabhai" Patel

May 1, 1955 - March 13, 2025