Obituary of Nanubhai C. Patel

Nanubhai Chhanabhai Patel, affectionately known as NC, of Madison, NJ, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 8, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle and friend, NC’s warmth, kindness, and generosity touched the lives of all who knew him.

Born on May 1, 1937, in Mombasa, Kenya, to Chhanabhai Kunverji Patel of Vegam and Dahiben Chhanabhai Patel of Varda, Gujarat, India, NC spent his childhood in a home overlooking a cricket ground. From an early age, he and his brother developed a deep passion for cricket, a sport that would remain central to his life.

At 23, during a visit to India, he was introduced to Madhuben Patel and knew instantly that she was the one. Determined to marry her, he embarked on a lifelong journey with his beloved wife. While in Kenya, they welcomed their first child and enjoyed a comfortable life. However, during the political unrest of the 1960s, NC and his family were among those forced to leave Mombasa. They eventually settled in Walsall, UK, where they rebuilt their lives with resilience and determination.

In England, NC worked tirelessly in a manufacturing facility while raising four children in a home filled with cherished memories. His dedication, generosity, and unwavering support for his family and community left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

NC was a legend in the cricketing community of West Bromwich, the Midlands, and across the country in the Mandhata League. Alongside a group of fellow Gujarati men, he co-founded the Indian Sports Club (West Midlands), where he played an instrumental role both on and off the field. As President of the club, he was more than just a leader —he was its heart and soul. The Sunday league matches, the camaraderie, and the legendary after-game gatherings remain treasured memories for those who shared in them

In the early 1990s, NC immigrated to the United States, where he and his wife embraced suburban life in Madison, NJ. He worked for E.P. Heller in Madison for a decade before retiring. Retirement brought him his greatest joy—spending time with his grandchildren, who lovingly called him "Dada." Whether babysitting, picking them up from school, taking them to the park, or watching movies together where he was known for falling asleep without fail in the theater, he was a constant and beloved presence in their lives. In his later years, he found peace and fulfillment in gardening and cooking with his wife, cultivating an incredible variety of vegetables.

NC is survived by his beloved wife, Madhuben; his children, Anil Patel (Meng) of Madison, NJ; Smita Patel (Mahendra) of Parsippany, NJ; Rita Patel (Girish) of Birmingham, UK; and Manoj Patel of Madison, NJ. He also leaves behind nine cherished grandchildren: Natalie Mason, Serena and Sachin Chandra, Jayna, Preya, and Amisha Patel, Zara and Laila Patel, and Annalise Anil Xu. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother, Balvantrai Chhanabhai Patel, and his sister.

NC’s absence leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of his family and friends. His legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Om Shanti.

A Hindu family funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 18th, 2025 at Somerset Hills Memorial Park, 95 Mount Airy Road, Basking Ridge, NJ