Michael Baszto, Jr.

Michael Baszto Jr, 67  of Watertown NY passed away on August 15, 2025 after a brief battle with lymphoma. Born on March 8, 1958 in Rochester NY, to Marian Whitney Baszto and Michael Baszto Sr. He grew up and attended schools in Geneseo and Hammondsport, NY.  He married Sherry Macy in 1980 and remained together as a couple for 37 years. He maintained a lasting friendship with his wife throughout his lifetime. He was a devoted and loving father to three children, Sarah Michelle Baszto, Christopher Michael Baszto, and Michael Andrew Baszto.

Mike’s professional life was a testament to his strong work ethic and unwavering dedication. He took immense pride in his work, no matter the task, whether it was as a custodian, a warehouse worker, or in manufacturing. He was the kind of person you could always count on, known for his reliability and careful attention to detail.

Despite facing his own health challenges, Mike never let it stop him from giving his all. For many years, he worked night shifts and often juggled multiple part-time jobs to support his family. He was a familiar and welcomed sight at countless businesses, from his time at Premier Janitorial Services, where he handled contracts for TJ Maxx and Petco, to helping get the Holiday Inn Express ready for its grand opening in 2006.

His commitment to a job well done was clear to anyone who worked with him. He spent years as a custodian at places like Salmon Run Mall, Fort Drum, and Rod's Big M in Adams. Through it all, from stocking shelves at a grocery store to a temporary manufacturing role, Mike’s hard work and pride left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working by his side.

Mike’s passions were a reflection of his soul—simple, authentic, and deeply felt. A lifelong fan of the Grateful Dead, he found joy in their music and wasn't afraid to show it, often seen playing air guitar with a smile on his face. When he wasn't enjoying a great tune, he could be found cheering on his favorite sports teams, the New York Yankees and the Giants.

His greatest pleasures were found in the quiet moments. He loved sitting on his back porch, a bottomless mug of coffee in hand, gazing out at the nature he so admired. He would spend hours watching the deer, rabbits, and birds, finding peace and contentment in their simple presence.

Above all, Mike was a man who took immense pride in his family. He was endlessly and reliably proud of his children, his grandson, and his grandpups. He deeply cherished the moments spent with those he held dear.

He is survived by his wife, Sherry Baszto of Adams Center NY, his daughter and son in law, Sarah Baszto and Matt Ostrofsky of Baldwinsville NY, his son and daughter in law, Christoper Baszto and Rebecca Lewis of Camillus NY, his son and daughter in law, Michael A Baszto and Monique Harris of Rochester, NY, his grandson Simon Baszto of Camillus NY. Also siblings: Ron Baszto (Holly Britton Forshee), Dave Baszto, Debbie (Steve) Bacon, and Ken (Vitor) Baszto , his special friend/caregiver of many years Miranda Hicks, several cousins, nieces and nephews, sister and brother in laws, and a great aunt and uncle who will all miss him greatly.

He was predeceased by his parents Marian and Michael Baszto Sr., brother Kevin Baszto, sister in law Kim Baszto, nephew Ethan Baszto, father and mother in law Frank and Zelma Macy, brother in law Roger Macy, sister in law Frankie Fowler Macy, and several special aunts, uncles and cousins.

At his request, there will be no funeral. A celebration of life will be held at Stony Brook State Park, Clara Barton Pavilion, Dansville NY, where Mike enjoyed many family reunions.  Please join the family: September 20 beginning at 11:00. Attire is casual. Bring a dish to share if you’d like to do so. Grill is also available.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to HONOR MIKE BASZTO JR’S LEGACY at: https://gifting-529.accessportals.com/contribute/B2J0L - a scholarship fund for his grandson, Simon, whom he loved immensely, and whose educational goals he would have wanted to support.

We find comfort in knowing Dad’s legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.