Donald John Basil

Donald J. Basil of Wilson, NY passed away on April 25, 2025 at the age of 91.

Don was born on June 12, 1933 to George John and Marion (Lindenau). He was one of ten children; brother of the late George, Mary, Barbara, Virginia, and Marion. He is survived by siblings Elaine, Patrick, James, and Betty. He had many cherished brothers and sisters-in-law.

He graduated from Hutch Tech High School where he developed his skills in mechanical engineering. He established a group of friends whose bond lasted his entire life. He was proud of their lasting friendship and the successful life each of them led. After graduation Don served in the army at Fort Dix where he was a critical specialist.

On February 28, 1959, Don married the love of his life MaryAnn Pietrowski. They recently celebrated their 66thwedding anniversary. He was the proud father of Donald (Amy), Phil (Rebecca), David, Missy (Joe), Fran, Catherine (Jeff), and Paul (Elyse). He cherished his grandchildren Stephen, Madeline, Lucas, Willow, Lauren, Jenna, Keersten, Savannah, Emily, Kaitlyn, Nicholas, April, Dustin, Emmett, and Lira. He enjoyed being a great-grandfather to Mia, Lilly, Bodhi, Peyton, Parker, Jackson, Landon, Maddie, and Waylon. He was anxiously awaiting the arrival of his 10th great-grandchild this summer.

Throughout his life Don had many jobs including paperboy for the Buffalo News and the Courier Express, delivery boy for a jewelry store, stock boy at Kobackers, draftsman at RG Wright Company and was employed as a mechanical engineer at several other businesses. He ultimately found great success establishing his own industrial washing equipment company, Basil Equipment Corporation from 1977-1991.

Don and MaryAnn enjoyed retiring in Venice, Florida. Don was a member of the Mission Valley Country Golf Club and the bridge club. He enjoyed hosting many friends and relatives at their Venice home. When he was home in Wilson for the summer, Don enjoyed golfing with his children and grandchildren that shared his love for the game.

Don will be remembered as a man that adored his wife and always put his family first. He was above all else generous, kind, and loyal.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Wounded Warriors Project. A celebration of life will be held this summer at a date to be announced by the family.