Don Shetty

In Loving Memory of K. Dhananjaya Shetty
Dhananjaya Shetty, fondly known as Don, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, at the age of 94. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Don was a longtime resident of Henrietta, NY, where he and his beloved wife Kala built a beautiful life together over 63 years of marriage.
Don is survived by his loving wife Kala; his brother Prabhakar; his daughter Rajni Carter, her husband Lucky, and their children Nikhaysh, Sloan, and Timin; and his son Rajiv Shetty, his wife Jennifer, and their children Myles and Lyla. He is also lovingly remembered by many beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He is predeceased by his parents, Vithal and Kamala Shetty; his brother Ramkrishna; and his sister Suma.
Don was born on October 20, 1930, in Kuthpady, Karnataka, India-an unforgettable birthdate of 10/20/30. He was the second of four children. Growing up in a small coastal village, Don developed a deep love for the outdoors, the ocean, and the fresh fish that surrounded him. As a young man, he excelled in athletics, particularly soccer and basketball, and maintained a lifelong dedication to health and fitness.
Don began his career by earning a degree in mechanical engineering in India, followed by proud service in the Indian Air Force. In 1962, he married Kala, and in the same year, took a leap of faith-accepting a sponsorship to Rochester, NY, through Alliance Tool & Die, the company he worked for. Out of more than 10,000 applicants, only 100 visas were granted, and Don considered this opportunity a true blessing.
While in Rochester, he earned a scholarship to study further at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), advancing his engineering education. Although this meant being separated from Kala for three years, she joined him in 1965, fell in love with Rochester, and together they decided to make the United States their home.
Don's career began in the tool and die industry, but his entrepreneurial spirit led him into real estate, where he eventually founded Shetty Realtors. He had a gift for connecting with people and helped many find their homes in the Rochester area.
Don was a pillar of the Rochester Indian community. He served on the boards of both the Indian Association and the Indian Community Center. He and Kala were instrumental in the founding of the Hindu Temple of Rochester, where Don proudly served as President for two terms. Together, they helped turn a dream into reality through tireless service and devotion.
Don was known for his generosity, wisdom, and unwavering love for his family and community. He offered friendship, mentorship, and inspiration to all who knew him. His life was extraordinary-a true American dream-and he will be deeply missed.
Services and Arrangements
Friends may call on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Miller Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc. (). for a map to the funeral home.
Calling hours will continue on Thursday, June 26, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM at the funeral home, followed by Don's Funeral Service in the Interfaith Chapel of the funeral home at 12 Noon.
For those unable to attend in person, please Click Here to Livestream the service.
A private procession will then take place to the Rochester Crematory (72 O'Connor Road, Fairport, NY 14450).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hindu Temple of Rochester. Click here to donate online in Don's memory.