Mangabhai M. Patel

Mangabhai Makanbhai Patel, 88, of Galesburg, died at 8:25 p.m. Friday, September 20, 2024, at OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg.

He was born October 9, 1935, in Kothamdi, India, to Makanbhai and Dhaniben Patel. Mangabhai was a small business owner for 25 years, retiring in 2005. He married Bhanuben Patel on December 12, 1961, in India.

Mangabhai is survived by his wife of 62 years, Bhanuben of Galesburg; two sons, Pranav (Grace) Patel of San Diego, California, and Paurav (Jadwiga) Patel of St. Charles, Illinois; and one daughter, Rita (Kishorbhai) Patel of Galesburg. Also surviving are six grandchildren: Nikesh, Ashni, Evan, Kieran, Maya, and Gautham; and two sisters, Vasantiben of Leicester, England, and Savitaben of Leicester, England. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Mangabhai loved watching soccer, tennis, and cricket. He was also an avid reader who especially liked Western novels and movies. Mangabhai also enjoyed classic Bollywood songs. He will be deeply missed.

Private family services will be held. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory in Galesburg. Memorial contributions can be made to a charity of your choice.