Joseph R. Basile, 63, of Valparaiso passed away Wednesday, January 24, 2024. He was born December 26, 1960, to Dr. Joseph & Lorraine (Schmidt) Basile, graduated from Merrillville High School in 1979 and served proudly with the U.S. Air Force. During his high school years, he enjoyed the competitive spirit on the ice hockey rink for Merrillville High School and Thornton Fractional South. Joe made his career as a Sales Representative with Team Honda in Merrillville. Fishing on Lake Shafer with his dad and fishing for walleye on Lake Erie with his in-laws were always favorite times for Joe. Any time he could escape life’s cares on his bicycle were prized moments, having just completed one of his favorite rides, the Apple Cider Century last October.
On July 7, 2001 he married Helaine Kus who survives along with children; Marissa (Trish) Jondahl of South Dakota, Matthew Basile (fiancé-Nancy “Aly” Schenker) of Valparaiso, Andrew (Jay) Hanaway of Valparaiso, Cameron Basile of Valparaiso, his mother, Lorraine Basile of Lamy, NM, siblings; LorriAnne Basile of Hobart, Paul Basile (Kristi Kassebaum) of Miami, FL, Erik Basile of Hobart, Heidi Basile (John Holton) of Lamy, NM, Mia (Ryan) McGloin of Chicago & Andrea Basile (John Bartholomew) of Tampa, FL. He was preceded in death by his father.
A visitation will be held Sunday, February 4th from 1 – 3 pm at Moeller Funeral Home, Valparaiso with memorial service beginning at 3:00 pm. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.
GUESTBOOK
Damn J.B. …. This news was hard to hear. Selling Hondas with you was always a good time, As you would ask what chaos I was causing on a daily basis, as Ricky G would laugh knowing my chaos…. Many wonderful memories of conversation with you that I hold and cherish. Always there with a positive outlook, and silver lining. 4 days of working at Honda I had a house fire, 2 days before Xmas .. you without hesitation asked— how can I help. barely knew my name, the sincerity in your eyes wanting to help me explained just who you were. The kind of person you were, I am honored to say you were my friend, till we meet again brother, know I respect you and will miss you. -Jeff Riley
My condolences to the family and friends of Joe Basile. Joe always had a smile on his face no matter what was going on good or bad. He always had a great attitude. He will be missed. Rest in peace Joe. -Charlie White
Although my husband and I did not know Joe well we knew that our daughter and Matt loved him beyond measure. The turnout for his funeral shows how fine a man he was. Our condolences to Helaine, Matt and Aly, Andrew and Jay, Cameron, LoriAnne, Paul and Erik! He will RIP knowing the impact he had on his family and friends. Love and Peace to all. -Craig and Delinda Schenker
You were more than my cousin, you were my friend. I feel blessed that we shared such a close bond. I love you and I will miss you always Joey. -Toni Jo Basile Cox
