Michael R. Basile

Michael Raphael Basile was born to Ralph and Catherine Basile on August 15, 1953 . He grew up in the Bronx with his only sister Joanne and attended Holy Rosary School where he developed lifelong friendships. For High School, He enrolled at New York Military Academy and graduated on June 5, 1971. Shortly after, he was accepted at Iona College and earned an Accounting degree.

Michael worked as an accountant for a few years, but there was still something missing. He decided to open a convenience store in the Bronx and pursue a life of entrepreneurship. As Mike was pursuing a niche, he stumbled upon payphones. He bought his first payphone and began to teach himself how it works. After mastering the technical parts of the payphone, Mike installed his first payphone outside of his store. Much to his surprise, after one day, the payphone made $500. In his excitement, he purchased another payphone and installed it not too far from the first one, and the same thing happened! This was the beginning of the birth of American Payphone Communications.

American Payphone thrived as a business for over 30 years. As cell phones emerged, Mike was already ahead of the game. With a tenacity for business, commercial real estate became an immediate passion in addition to many other entrepreneurial endeavors. Mike accomplished all that he had set out to do. He was a man of his word and an unknown master mind.

In 1982, Mike met Iris at the convenience store he owned where she frequented daily. They went on to raise 2 children together, Anthony and Leilah. Mike’s support and guidance was felt through his unwavering dedication.

Mike was a determined and hardworking man. There wasn’t a “retirement” bone in his body. If anyone knew Mike, he took fashion cues from no one. He had a signature every day look: Levi jeans, polo or sweater, and black timberland boots. His consistency was unmatched. Mike was committed to his family and well respected among his peers. His neighbors revered and appreciated his advice, counsel, and friendship.

He courageously fought for his own health over the last 5 years. On February 6, 2023, he transitioned peacefully to his beloved father, mother and sister (Joanne) . In addition to his loving partner Iris and children, Mike is survived by his nephew, JR; amazing aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

A visitation for Michael will be held Thursday, February 9, 2023 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Rd, Westwood, New Jersey 07675. A graveside service will occur Friday, February 10, 2023 at 11:30 AM at The Woodlawn Cemetery, Webster Ave & East 233rd Street, Bronx, NY 10470.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Becker-FuneralHome.com for the Basile family.