Mahendra Parekh Obituary

Mahendra Chhaganlal Parekh

Mahendra Chhaganlal Parekh passed away peacefully Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at his home in Seabrook Island, South Carolina, surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren, and brother. He was 87. Born August 27, 1938, in Mumbai, India, to Chhaganlal and Kamla Parekh, he grew up as a devoted son and brother, caring for his siblings and helping his mother in the kitchen. He completed medical school at Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College in 1961.

In 1962, Dr. Parekh immigrated to New York City to complete his obstetrics and gynecology residency at Jacobi Hospital and Lincoln Hospital. He married Sharda (Sujata) Pathak, October 1, 1967, in Mumbai. Their first child, Ami, was born in the Bronx. After additional infertility training at McGill University in Montreal-where their second child, Ketki, was born-the family settled in Queens in 1971 and later moved to Findlay, Ohio, where their son Samir was born.

Dr. Parekh served the Findlay community for decades as an OBGYN, opening his own practice focused on gynecology and infertility and serving as director of Planned Parenthood. A strong advocate for women's rights, he was known for his compassion, generosity, and dedication to his patients. He retired in 2012.

Diagnosed with dementia in 2019, he faced the illness with humor and grace. Larger than life, he was beloved for his quick wit, joyful spirit, and signature "lectures" on hard work, education, family, and daily exercise. He was a grounding presence whose values continue to guide those he leaves behind. His greatest joy was his family, and his 58-year marriage to Sharda was marked by devotion, partnership, and enduring love.

His second proudest achievement was the family's home on Seabrook Island, purchased in 1976, which later became their retirement home. He was one of the founding donors to the start of the Seabrook Island Club. He treasured simple pleasures there-drives around the island listening to music, playing tennis and golf, and countless cups of coffee ice cream enjoyed from his favorite swivel chair overlooking the marsh.

He is preceded in death by his parents and survived by his wife, Sharda; children, Ami (Matt), Ketki (Doug), and Samir (Tanvi); grandchildren, Sharda, Maya, Anjali, Sahana, Riya, and Raina; and siblings, Hasmukh, Bharti, Arvind, and Shashank.

A private cremation ceremony took place for immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Parkinson's Foundation: https://www.parkinson.org/?form=19983&tribute=true.