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AAHOA pays tribute to former chair JK Patel
Patel’s leadership expanded AAHOA’s reach and strengthened franchisor-owner partnerships across the U.S.
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Anushka Pathak - Sat, 01, Nov 2025
- 17:17 EDT
- 36
Former chairman Jayantilal (JK) Patel / Courtesy: AAHOA
The Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) mourned the passing of former chairman Jayantilal (JK) Patel, who died on Oct. 28, at the age of 85.
Patel, a visionary hotelier, played a pivotal role in expanding the association’s influence among Indian American hotel owners.
AAHOA chairman Kamalesh (KP) Patel praised JK Patel’s contributions, noting, “His leadership, foresight, and commitment to our community leave a lasting legacy.”
During his tenure as AAHOA chairman from 1996 to 1997, Patel hosted town halls and educational seminars nationwide, focusing on growing membership and improving relationships between hotel owners and franchisors.
Patel immigrated to the United States from Kisumu, Kenya, at age 38 with his wife and two children. He purchased his first hotel in 1979 in Aiken, South Carolina, and went on to develop, own, and operate numerous properties across the Southeast.
He founded North Point Hospitality in Atlanta, cementing his role as a regional hospitality pioneer. After his chairmanship, Patel continued serving AAHOA through committee work and international delegations, including visits to India with fellow members.
He is credited with laying the foundation for more collaborative franchisor-owner partnerships, which continue to benefit the industry.
AAHOA extended condolences to Patel’s family and colleagues, highlighting his enduring impact on the association and hospitality sector. His funeral services took place on Oct. 31 at Wages and Sons Funeral Home, Lawrenceville, GA, with a live stream available on the funeral home website.
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