Pradip Natwarlal Shah

Pradip Natwarlal Shah, of Burlington, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on November 1, 2025, at the age of 75.
A man of quiet strength and deep kindness, Pradip's life was shaped by love and faith. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose warm smile and joyful laughter brought comfort to everyone around him.
Born on January 10, 1950, in Baroda, Gujarat, India, Pradip was one of seven children of the late Natwarlal and Kusumben (Dalal) Shah. From an early age, he showed a keen interest in mathematics and science, which inspired his studies in civil engineering and a lifelong passion for problem-solving.
In 1978, Pradip immigrated to the United States in search of opportunity and a better future, not only for himself but for the family he dreamed of raising. He began his career designing nuclear power plants, applying the precision and discipline that defined his work throughout life. Later, he joined the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), working in the Structures Design and Bridge Inspection Units for more than 30 years until his retirement. He helped ensure the safety of bridges across the Commonwealth, from small rural towns to the busy streets of Boston, including its landmark Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge. He took great pride in knowing that his work helped protect countless travelers every day, and through his dedication and care, he left a quiet, lasting mark on the state's transportation landscape.
Through mutual friends, Pradip met Hemalatta Bhatt, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love and understanding. They married on August 18, 1979, and over the years made homes in Somerville and Arlington before settling in Burlington, where they built a life together and faced every joy and challenge side by side.
Their bond was one of balance and harmony. Hemalatta's warmth and care complemented Pradip's calm steadiness and quiet wisdom. Together, they raised two sons in a home filled with laughter and love, guided by the belief that happiness was found not in wealth or success but in family, community, and the simple joy of caring for one another.
Faith was a grounding force in Pradip's life. He found joy and meaning in serving others and drew strength from his connection to the ISSO Shree Swaminarayan Hindu Temple in Lowell and the Satsang Center in Woburn. He was known in both communities for his steady presence and kind spirit. He gave of himself freely by volunteering at events, supporting fundraising efforts, and offering words of encouragement to others. His faith showed not only in prayer but in the patience, compassion, and generosity he brought to everyday life.
Outside of work and faith, Pradip found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved reading, watching Bollywood movies, and following cricket. As his sons grew up, he learned about American football and baseball, turning a shared love of sports into countless conversations, laughs, and lasting memories. He also had a lifelong interest in current events, following local and global news with curiosity and insight. Ever thoughtful and inquisitive, he approached the world with both reason and empathy, a calm perspective that guided him as a husband, father, and friend.
Pradip was a devoted father who found his greatest pride in his sons and his deepest joy in his grandchildren. To his family, he was a source of wisdom, stability, and unconditional love, always ready with thoughtful advice, a warm smile, or a quiet moment of understanding. He worked tirelessly to give his sons opportunities beyond what he had growing up, taking immense pride in their accomplishments and the lives they created. His devotion to family never wavered, and even after Hemalatta's passing earlier this year, her presence remained with him - in the prayers they once shared, the meals they enjoyed together, and the memories that filled every corner of their home. After months of missing her deeply, Pradip is now reunited with his beloved wife and lifelong partner, Hemalatta Pradip Shah - the love of his life - together again in eternal peace.
He is survived by his loving sons, Visvesh Shah of Burlington, and Diptesh Shah and his wife Sayali of Ashland; and his adored grandchildren, Aarav and Aarian Shah, who brought endless joy to his days. He is also survived by his siblings, many nieces and nephews, and dear friends who will forever remember his kindness, warmth, and laughter.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his visiting hours on Sunday, November 9th, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., with Bhajan from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m., at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington, MA. Funeral services will be held at the Merrimack Cremation Service, 10 Henry Clay Drive, Merrimack, NH, on Tuesday, November 11th, at 10:00 a.m.