RACINE – Dilip Dullabhji Kotecha, 73, passed away peacefully at home on October 1, 2020, surrounded by loved ones.Dilip was born in Jinja, Uganda on August 29, 1947 to Dullabhji and Muktaben Kotecha. As one of seven children, Dilip loved being part of a big family and took interest in every one of his siblings' lives. At the age of 25, Dilip met Pushpa "Avani" Barai in Bangalore, India and they married within months. Dilip was a loving and committed husband. Their marriage was full of adventure, travel, love and laughter during their 47 years together. Throughout his life, Dilip was devoted to his family. Nothing was more important, and he was willing to sacrifice anything to ensure their health, livelihood and success. Dilip was a proud and involved father to his daughter Monila and son Mital. He was excited for each phase of their personal and professional endeavors. His support was steady and strong and no job was too small – whether it was packing & moving into a new apartment, negotiating a job offer, picking up favorite groceries or simply making a cup of chai to bring comfort when it was needed most, he was ready to participate in any way. His happiness expanded when his son-in-law Brian came into the family and his two granddaughters, Navya and Sahana were born. He made it his mission to be available and involved in every aspect of their lives. Navya and Sahana will remember their "Nana" playing hide and seek, telling silly jokes, playing games and taking them to the park, regardless of the weather forecast. Brian will forever remember Dilip as a second father who provided sound advice and unwavering support. Dilip was so proud of his family and would light up when mentioning any of them. Dilip's work took him across the globe. He began his career as a Chartered Accountant and practiced in both the UK and Zambia (Africa). He then moved into management for organizations in Canada and finally Racine, Wisconsin. He always dreamed of being an entrepreneur and that dream was fulfilled when he co-founded Creative Seasonings and Spices in Racine. One of his proudest professional moments was when this business, that he helped successfully build from the ground up, was acquired and carried forward by a major international food company. Both in business and in life, he worked tirelessly to support those around him. Whether it was helping his family move to a new country or assisting friends in launching and growing their own businesses, he was always ready to help. He was a true gentleman and will be remembered for his wisdom, professionalism and insightful guidance. Survivors include his wife, Avani Kotecha; daughter, Monila Kotecha (Brian) Junkins; son, Mital Dilip Kotecha; granddaughters, Navya and Sahana Junkins; and his sisters, Pratima Morjaria, Nalini Pavagadhi, Nayna Vaja, Vipula Savani and Surekha Paun. Dilip is also survived by other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Rajni Kotecha and Harish Kotecha.There will be a private viewing followed by a Hindu service for immediate family only on Sunday October 4, 2020 at Purath Strand Funeral Home in Racine, WI. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/