Guru Sashital

Guru Sashital, a devoted husband and father, a proud grandfather, and an ardent Detroit sports fan, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2024, at the age of 85. Born on October 9, 1939 in Bombay, India, Guru dedicated his life to both his professional career and the love of his family.

With a double degree in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Guru built a successful career that was characterized by his commitment to excellence and innovation. After working in India and the UK for a decade, Guru sought the engineering opportunities of the Motor City. He moved to Detroit in 1971 and began working at Ford Motor Company in 1979, where he remained until his retirement in 2001. During his career at Ford, Guru was instrumental in designing various Ford vehicles, including the original Ford Explorer, the Ford Taurus, and the Ford Escort, and several overseas versions of Ford models. 

Guru’s contributions extended beyond his professional achievements. He was known for his spiritual outlook on life, which shone through in his interactions with family and friends. He was notoriously optimistic and often ended any request for advice with “Don’t worry, everything will be all right”. An avid football and hockey fan, Guru enjoyed pontificating on the strengths and (especially) the weaknesses of his beloved Detroit Lions, Red Wings, and Michigan Wolverines. He shared countless moments watching games and discussing sports with friends and family, creating cherished memories that will always be held dear. Shortly before his passing, Guru was able to watch his Lions beat the Green Bay Packers and move to a 12-1 record.

Guru is survived by his loving wife, Mona Sashital; their daughters, Gouri (Steven) Roach and Dipa (Eric Underbakke) Sashital; his brother, Bhaskar (Shrikala) Sashital; his sister, Mira (Krishna) Naravi; and his grandchildren, Shaelyn and Jahan Roach. He also leaves behind numerous friends and loved ones from all over the world including nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews who will all miss him dearly.

Guru was preceded in death by his father, Shivshankar Sashital, mother, Sushila Sashital (née Girija Mallapur), late brother, Raghuvir Sashital, and sister, Nalini Kulkarni.

Visitation services will be held on Monday, December 9, 2024, beginning 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM with a brief funeral service at 11:00am at Schrader-Howell Funeral Home located at 280 S. Main St, Plymouth, MI 48170. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Mai Family Service as listed under Charities on this site.

Guru Sashital will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, whose legacy of kindness and dedication to his family touched the lives of so many. His memory will be a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to know him.