'Forever loved' - Funeral details revealed for landlord who helped shape the Black Country's Desi pub culture
Tributes flooded in following the death of Suresh Patel, known to many as Suki, who ran The Vine for almost 50 years.
Funeral details have been revealed for the founder of a popular West Bromwich pub who helped shape the Black Country's Desi pub culture.
Tributes flooded in following the death of Suresh Patel, known to many as Suki, who ran The Vine for almost 50 years.
His family said they have been ‘overwhelmed’ by love, kindness and support since he died following a short illness earlier this month.
Suki came over to England from Kenya in the late 1950s.
He then got married to Bhanu Patel in the 70s, and the two took ownership of the establishment in Roebuck Street in 1978.
Suki helped shape the Black Country's Desi pub culture and has been described as a ‘pioneer of The Vine’s mixed grill’ as well as ‘a much-loved part of the local community’.
Family, friends and everyone who knew him are invited to his wake to share memories and celebrate his life.
A cremation service will take place at Sandwell Valley Crematorium on Sunday (November 1) at 10am.
It will be followed by a wake at The Vine from midday.
West Bromwich Albion is also expected to pay tribute to Suki before their next home match, his family said.
In a post on social media, his family thanked everyone who had shared memories of Suki, and those who sent flowers and cards.
The post said: “Our family is truly overwhelmed by the love, kindness and support shown to us since losing our beloved Suki.
“The comments, flowers, cards, messages and visits have meant more to us than words could ever express. Every kind gesture, every memory shared and every person who has reached out has brought us comfort during this incredibly difficult time.
“We honestly never realised just how many lives Suki had touched or how many people knew him. Hearing your stories, reading your messages and seeing the love you all had for him has been both heartbreaking and incredibly comforting.
“In true Suki style, he always said that if he ever passed away, he wanted a wake!
“So, in keeping with his wishes, we will be holding a wake this Sunday after the funeral service at The Vine, West Bromwich, to celebrate Suki’s life, share memories, have a laugh and raise a final glass in his honour.
“For those who knew Suki personally and would like to join us, please find the details of the wake.
“We would love for the wake to be shared with Suki’s friends and those who knew him personally, as we come together as family and friends to remember him and celebrate his life.
“Thank you again to everyone who has shown our family so much love and support.
“Forever loved, forever missed, never forgotten.”
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