Tribute

Our dad was truly our everything, and we will always be proud to call ourselves a daddy’s girl, a son, and the children of a man who gave his whole life to his family. He and our mom were true partners for life—in every sense of the word. They did everything together, cared for each of us so completely, and showed us what it meant to love without conditions. They were inseparable, and that bond will forever be our example of what devotion looks like. Dad carried the weight of our family with quiet strength, never once complaining. That was just who he was—steady, selfless, and endlessly loving. He made sure none of us had to worry about a thing. For his children, he was not just a provider but our biggest encourager. He fought countless battles for our health and happiness, giving us courage when we felt like we couldn’t go on. Whether it was chasing career goals, going away for school, or some wild dream we came up with, Mom and Dad together always found a way to make it happen. His love for his grandchildren—my niece and nephew and my brother and sister-in-law's children—was something extraordinary. They were his pure joy, his whole reason for surviving through so many hardships. He poured his heart into them, and in return, they gave him purpose and light during his most difficult days. The bond they shared with him is a gift we will carry forward for the rest of our lives. Dad and our brother shared a closeness that was unshakable. They were more than father and son; they were true friends, teammates, and confidants. That bond will never fade, and it will live on in every memory they created together. This past year and a half, Dad showed us what true courage looks like. After his diagnosis with esophageal cancer, he fought with every ounce of strength he had. Even when his body grew weak, his spirit never stopped fighting to stay with us. On Saturday morning, August 16th, at 9:00 a.m.—on Janmashtami, the birth of Lord Krishna—we had to say goodbye. Our mom, our brother, and I were right there holding and hugging him—together, just as we’ve always been. How we began as a family is how we ended: united, with love all around him. His passing was peaceful, and for that we thank God, because he struggled so much in his journey with cancer. Now he is safe in God’s arms, where he can struggle no more. Dad was our protector, our guide, and our heart. He will always be our greatest blessing, and his love will continue to hold us together even in his absence. Rest in peace, Dad. We love and miss you more than words can ever express—until we see you again.

Friends & Family

Daksha Patel, Vishal Patel, Sejal Patel, Saavin Patel, Sahniya Patel, and Sapna Patel