Obituary of Matthew John Basile

Rochester, NY - Formerly of Washingtonville, NY

Matthew John Basile, age 55 of Rochester, NY, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 9, 2024, after a brave fight with pancreatic cancer. Matthew was born in Goshen, NY, and was the son of the late Frank and Barbara Basile. Matthew was a graduate of Washingtonville Senior High School, where he was active in both band and the audio-visual club. He went on to graduate from Emerson College where he majored in Communications.

Matthew spent the majority of his career in radio, both on-air and behind the scenes, and in many ways, his heart remained on the air throughout this career. He spent time on Martha’s Vineyard, in Boston and San Francisco but planted roots in Rochester, NY. It was there that he settled in with beloved dog Maggie and cat Milo and eventually met his husband, Daniel Birnbaum. Matt and Dan were married in 2016 and enjoyed great food, attending live music concerts, and appreciating nature.

Matt was a peaceful spirit who cherished quality music, especially R.E.M., Brandi Carlile, and John Lennon. He fiercely loved his husband, his parents, brothers, niece and nephews, and the many who were privileged to call him a friend. His faith was quiet but strong. He wanted to be remembered as a curator of deep connections. Someone who made sure that those around him were taken care of and well-loved. He will be deeply missed by many. 

Love Prevails.    

Matthew is survived by his husband Daniel, brothers Frank (Mary Ann) and Jim (Ellen), nephews Matthew Basile (Alexandra), Austin Basile, Declan Basile, and niece, Kathleen Rafferty (John).

Matthew was predeceased by his loving father and mother, Frank and Barbara Basile.

Please join us and Matt's Spiritus Christi congregation for a service of remembrance on Saturday, March 16, 2024 11:00am at the Downtown United Presbyterian Church, 121 N Fitzhugh Street, Rochester, NY 14614.

A graveside service will take place at the family plot in the Warwick Cemetery on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Lollypop Farm (Humane Society of Greater Rochester) - Lollypop.org

Funeral arrangements are honorably entrusted to Zygmunt-Murtie Funeral and Cremation Service, formerly the Strong-Basile Funeral Home –  845-477-8240 or visit www.zmmemorials.com.