Theodore "Ted" Basile's Obituary
Theodore R. Basile, 95, passed away peacefully on Thursday at his home surrounded by his loving family. Theodore, known by family and friends as “Ted” was born on October 4, 1925 in Satriano, Italy. Son of the late Vincenzo and Maria (DeMarte) Basile, he came to America with his father when he was 12 years old and they settled on the north side of Syracuse. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy on the USS McCall, a navy destroyer, where he saw combat during the Pacific campaign in World War II.
After his tour of duty, he returned to Syracuse and married the love of his life, Anna Marie Surace. They always worked as a team starting with their first grocery store, Lyncourt Superette, to their multiple produce stands in Clay and Cicero. They then built Teddy Bear Foods which they operated for over 30 years. Ted was a hero in the community, giving to people in need as well as opening the store early or staying late to take care of customers during the worst of blizzard conditions. Later in his long career he built Teddy Bear Gardens where he delighted in discussing gardening tips with all of his customers.
Ted loved SU basketball and the NY Yankees. He was truly the rock of the family, always giving us guidance and love. Each family member has many happy moments to share from Chris (his favorite barber) to Michelle (who was taught by Grandma to make Papa’s favorite meatballs and sauce) to Teddy (his twin because they share their love of the Yankees as well as their name) to Will (who picked up all of Papa’s drawing tips).
Besides his parents, Ted was also predeceased by his sister, Rosina Lombardi.
He is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Anna Marie (Surace) Basile; children, Vincent (Helene) Basile of Berwick, PA, Mary (John) Tracy of LaFayette, NY, Salvatore Basile of New York, NY; grandchildren, Christopher (Jillian) Tracy, Edward Basile (Stephanie Riley), Michelle (Scott) Jevis, Nora Basile (Ian Woloschin); great-grandchildren, Theodore Jevis, Wren Woloschin, William Jevis and Corbin Woloschin.
A private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Private entombment will be in Assumption Cemetery Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ted’s name may be made to Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital.
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