Amritlal T. Shah, 81, of Hamden, Connecticut, passed away on January 14, 2025.

Born on December 19, 1943, in the village of Bada in Gujarat, India, Amritlal "Amrat" was the son of the late Tejshi and Laxmiben Shah. He came to the United States in 1969 to pursue higher education at the University of New Haven, where he earned an MBA.

Amrat began his professional journey as a chemist before transitioning to a successful career in finance at Merrill Lynch and Shearson Lehman. In addition to his work as a wealth advisor, he became a pioneering entrepreneur in the state of Connecticut. Working nights and weekends, Amrat opened the first Indian grocery store in the state, located in Bridgeport. The store quickly became a central hub for the growing Indian community. In 1985, Amrat expanded his entrepreneurial efforts by developing a motel property in Meriden, which he operated diligently until his retirement in 2024.

A passionate advocate for his heritage, Amrat was a founding member of the Gujarati Association of Connecticut. His tireless contributions helped build and strengthen the local community, serving and enriching the lives of many generations.

Amrat is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Mrudula "Meena" Shah; his loyal son, Sachin; caring daughter-in-law, Sabiha; and his cherished grandchildren, Laila and Zaiden. He is also survived by his in-laws, Rajesh and Kalpana Saraiya, and his loving niece, Mansi Saraiya, all of whom supported him with love and care for over 40 years.

Friends are invited to visit with Amrat's family on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00AM at Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Avenue, Hamden, with a brief prayer service at 11:00 AM. For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available here: Shah Funeral Service .