Michael L. Lasser (89) passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, surrounded by loved ones and colleagues at Hildebrandt Hospice in Rochester, NY.
Michael was born on March 15, 1936, in Newark to Samuel and Evelyn (Super) Lasser and grew up in Plainfield, NJ. He received a Bachelor’s Degree from Dartmouth College and a Master’s from Brooklyn College. From there he went on to teach English at The Harley School from 1966-1998.
For 40 years, Michael was host of the nationally syndicated public radio show Fascinatin‘ Rhythm for which he won a George Foster Peabody award. He was a member of the NY State Council on the Arts, was director and curator of the Wilson Arts Center, and served as theater critic for Rochester’s Democrat and Chronicle and the City newspapers. He lectured and performed in concerts all over the country at universities, libraries and art museums, with Cindy Miller, Alan Jones and Jessica Ann Best. He also earned the prestigious Thomas P. Johnson Distinguished Visiting Scholar at Rollins College.
An authority on American Popular Music, Michael wrote five books on the subject. Included in the collection are City Songs, Say it with a Beautiful Song and Sweet Freedoms Song (Nov. 2025).
He was the consummate teacher and scholar, known for his irascible nature, love of banter, dry wit, and big heart.
Michael and his wife Elaine had a vibrant and passionate love affair with New York City, and they were staunch baseball fans rooting for the New York Mets and attending Red Wings games with friends.
Predeceased by his loving wife, Elaine, Michael is survived by his loving children: daughter, Carol Wood and his son, Robert Lasser, son in law, Robert Wood and granddaughter Alison Wood.
A memorial service will be held at The Harley School’s Wilson Arts Center (1981 Clover Street, Rochester, New York 14618) on SATURDAY August 2, 2025 at 11:30 AM. CLICK HEREfor a map to the service.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to The Harley School or your charity of choice.
