Bhagwan (B.C.) Patel

Bhagwan (B.C.) Patel, 86, passed away on October 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Navsari, India on February 11, 1939, as the second youngest of 11 children, he grew up working in the family business while also excelling in academics and sports. Bhagwan came to Chicago in 1960 to complete his civil engineering degree at the Chicago Technical College. He moved to Indianapolis to begin his engineering career in 1962. His expertise in civil engineering came from his passion for learning and expanding his technical skills. He continued his family’s entrepreneurial spirit when he founded VS Engineering, Inc. in March of 1980. He started the business in the basement of his home and opened his office on the westside of Indianapolis in 1981 where it continues to thrive today.

Given his competitive nature and passion for sports, he excelled in cricket, kabaddi and tennis. He organized cricket in Indianapolis, bringing league play from across the Midwest. When not at work, tennis was his favorite pastime on the weekends, teaching his children along the way.

Bhagwan comes from a family of talented musicians that cherished the unity that music creates. Bhagwan was self-taught on multiple instruments, including the harmonium, accordion and Taishōgoto. Bhagwan, his two brothers and wife, Hansa, entertained the Indian community for many years at religious events, Diwali and other celebrations.

Family was at his core. He supported his wife as they opened their home to countless families and friends who were transitioning to the United States. Bhagwan always recognized Hansa’s love and encouragement for him to fulfill his dream of establishing a successful business, while also creating opportunities for those close to him. When it came to his children, his efforts were limitless: from providing the best educational opportunities, teaching hard work and discipline, and instilling the importance and priority of family by leading by example. As a Dada (grandfather), he showered his grandsons with love through making seekh kabobs, beating them in cards and chess, and countless hours spent together. He always supported them at their many events, whether it be soccer, basketball, track, or music. Through his actions and accomplishments, he showed his grandsons that anything they set their minds to is possible.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers and 4 sisters. He is survived by his wife, Hansa, daughter, Vandana (Robert) Gloyeske, son, Sanjay (Cathy) Patel and grandsons Nikhil Gloyeske, Niyan Patel and Rajan Gloyeske, brother Dhansukh (Niru) Patel and many nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones.