Obituary of Surendra H Nanavati

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Surendra Hargovindas Nanavati
(April 20, 1927 – October 28, 2023)

Surendra Hargovindas Nanavati, a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2023, at the age of 96. He lived a remarkable life, witnessing India's independence and the technological revolution ushered in by the internet and smartphones.

Born in Bharuch, Gujarat, India, Surendra was the eighth of eleven children. He was a voracious reader, a gifted poet, a fluent English speaker, and an electrical engineering graduate from VJTI, Bombay. Deeply inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's ideals, he pledged to abstain from tea in protest of British rule.

Despite being one of the younger siblings, Surendra assumed the responsibility of educating and marrying many of his brothers and sisters, marking the end of the first chapter of his life.

On May 6, 1961, Surendra embarked on a new chapter by marrying Sohini Modi. His government job took him to various parts of Gujarat as he began building his family. They eventually settled in Ahmedabad, where they raised four children: Devang, Parul, Chinmay, and Archana.

In 1978, Surendra suffered a devastating loss when his beloved wife, Sohini, passed away after a sudden illness. Despite the profound grief, he demonstrated unwavering strength and resilience, assuming the challenging role of a single father and ensuring the success and well-being of his four children.

Over time, Surendra's children completed their education and established their own families, with three of them immigrating to the United States.

In 1996, following the wedding of his youngest daughter, Archana, Surendra began the third chapter of his life by relocating to the United States. He immersed himself in the lives of his children and grandchildren, becoming a cherished mentor and invaluable contributor. He adapted seamlessly to Indian American life, even learning to use a computer, Internet and social media.

Surendra delighted in watching old Hindi movies, keeping up with current events, following cricket, and singing bhajans. Each of his grandchildren treasured a bhajan sung to them by their "Dada" during their childhood.

His involvement with the Swadhyay Parivar allowed him to forge new friendships and expand his network, while his remarkable ability to connect with people of all ages remained undiminished. He effortlessly transitioned from a playful grandparent to a wise counselor for adults grappling with life's challenges.

Those fortunate enough to have crossed his path fondly remember his warm smile, boundless kindness, love, shared wisdom, and infectious sense of humor.

He is survived by his four children and their spouses, eight grandchildren and their spouses, and one great-grandson. His extended family network of nephews and nieces will forever cherish his memory as an inspiration, friend, philosopher, and guide.

Surendra will be remembered as an inspiring family man, a profound thinker, an eternal optimist, and a true gentleman.