Alexander C. Basta, 75, of Lewiston, NY, passed away on Wednesday May 13, 2015 surrounded by his loving family at Niagara Hospice House in Lockport, NY. Born in Niagara Falls, NY he was the son of the late Joseph and Vivian (Trimaldi) Basta.

Al was a lifelong resident of the Niagara Falls and Lewiston area. He graduated from Niagara Falls High school in 1959 and later attended the Vale School of Real Estate and Insurance in Newark, NJ. On October 24, 1959 he married Rosemary F. (Montana) Basta at St. Joseph's Church in Niagara Falls. For thirty eight years Al owned and operated Al Basta State Farm Insurance in Niagara Falls until his retirement in 2000. During that time he was the recipient of several accolades as one of the area's top insurance agents, including the President's Club Ring for being one the 25 top agents in the U.S. in LIFE Insurance production. He also earned the Silver Scroll, the Bronze Tablet, and the Crystal Excellence awards from State Farm.

Al and his wife Rosemary were extensive travelers, having visited twenty different countries as well as spending their winters in Jupiter, Florida. One of Al's passions in life was golfing, and had achieved two holes-in-one. For the past fifteen years following his retirement he faithfully golfed five days a week. He along with his golfing partners played at various golf clubs locally and in Florida, as well as more notable courses including, The Blue Monster, Desert Springs, CA and the PGA Golf Club. In his leisure time he also enjoyed following the stock market. Above all, Al loved spending his time with his grandchildren who affectionately called him "Biggie" and attending their school and sporting events.

In addition to his beloved wife of 55 1/2 years, Mr. Basta is survived by his three daughters, Stephanie J. (Richard) Rockwood of Lockport, NY; Dr. Joanne C. Basta of Youngstown, NY and Christine A. (David) D'Aloise of Lewiston, NY; four grandchildren, Alexandra Rockwood, Francesca Rockwood, Anna D'Aloise and Anthony D'Aloise, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was also predeceased by three siblings, Lawrence (Theresa of Arizona) Basta, Catherine "Kay" (late Albert) Fracassi and Robert Basta.

In honoring Al's memory, his family asks that you perform an act of random kindness.

Visitation will be held on Sunday from 3 – 8 p.m. at the
M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY. Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, May 18th at 10 a.m. at St. Peter R.C. Church, 620 Center Street, Lewiston, NY with Msgr. David LiPuma officiating. EVERYONE PLEASE ASSEMBLE AT CHURCH. Entombment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice 4675 Sunset Drive Lockport, NY 14094 or the Niagara University Basta Family Scholarship (used for deserving Niagara County residents) PO Box 2008 Niagara University, NY 14109.