Pratima G. Butala

With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Pratima Butala, wife of Shri Govindbhai Butala on June 18, 2023 at the age of 77.

Raised in Jhalod, in the State of Gujarat, India, Pratima Butala was the fourth of eight children born to Kanaiyalal Desai and Damayanti Sheth in 1945. Her childhood was filled with wonderful memories shared with many sisters and friends in her village in India – going to school, playing hide & seek, picking flowers, watching movies and beginning her journey as an incredible cook.

On February 13, 1967, at age 21 she married Govind Chunilal Butala. They started their family in India with the birth of their two daughters, Alpa and Smita. In February 1971, Pratima came to the U.S. with her two young daughters to reunite with her husband who had made the journey months earlier to establish a home for his family. When she arrived in the United States, her flight was diverted from JFK to Philadelphia, on a very cold, wintery February day, with no coats and no change to make a phone call. This was the first of many challenges she overcame as a young immigrant in a new country.

Throughout her life, she played many roles – daughter, wife, daughter-in-law, mother, nani, bhabhi, mami, masi, kaki, phoi, and friend. She ran a family store and worked for several years, which brought her much joy. However, the role that marks her legacy is that of homemaker and matriarch extraordinaire. She took care of her father-in-law, Chunilal for many years, creating such a precious bond that he truly considered her his daughter.

Throughout the 70’s and 80’s, as family members on both her and her husband’s side immigrated to the U.S., Pratima and Govind’s home was their first home away from home, and the launchpad for their new lives in the U.S. The love and caring she provided with home cooking, warm beds, clean laundry, and pure kindness gave numerous people the strength and foundation to complete their studies, find jobs, and settle in their own homes. Everyone remembers her for her smiles and unconditional love. For many, she was a second mom, and to others, a relative for whom they are forever grateful.

She was an inspiration for her daughters in the way she raised them to be fiercely independent and strong, and welcoming of all who come through their doors. She will forever be remembered by the younger generations, as she took care of them at a moment’s notice and was often called “candy mami.” She also took care of her grandchildren for the first few months of their lives, and many times thereafter whenever she was needed.

The spark of love was present throughout her last breath, as she passed with many who loved her by her side.

Pratima is survived by her loving husband Govind, daughters Alpa Shah and Smita Butala, son-in-law Shailan Shah, grandson Nikhil Shah, and granddaughter Sarina Shah.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association in Pratima’s memory.