Popular Binghamton Tavern Owner Passes Away

A sign in front of a popular State Street, Binghamton bar reads “Rest in Peace Uncle Tony” and bids goodbye to the establishment’s owner.

74 year old Anthony “Uncle Tony” Basti passed away Friday, November 16.

The life-long Binghamton resident opened Uncle Tony’s in downtown Binghamton in 1983.

According to the obituary placed by the family, Basti was a 1964 graduate of Binghamton North High School, loved sports, music and dancing.

The Downtown watering hole was a favorite hang-out for local hockey players and fans, theater-goers, patrons of the nearby arena and local radio personalities.

Calling hours will be held Friday, November 23 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Thomas Shea Funeral Home on Robinson Street and a Funeral Mass will be held at Saint James Roman Catholic Church on Main Street in Johnson City Saturday, November 24 at 9:30 a.m.

The family requests donations in lieu of flowers be sent to The Danielle House, 160 Riverside Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905.