A fixture in Downtown New Bedford for many years has passed away.

Zaritt died Sunday afternoon of natural causes in Wareham. He was 72.

Many folks may remember Michael Zaritt as a perennial candidate for several elected offices, including Mayor. He also worked for WBSM and had his own show on Sunday night.

Reverend Russ Chamberlain of Mercy Meals and More confirmed Zaritt's passing. Rev. Chamberlain says Zaritt became a regular at his breakfast program, and soon joined the Pilgrim United Church of Christ....

Reverend Russ says Zaritt had been in declining mental and physical health for the past few years.

Dubbed the "Night-Mayor" by former Mayor Rosemary Tierney, Zaritt is credited with being the man who started the campaign to restore and move the sandstone eagle known as "Mr. Steadfast" to it's current location at the corner of Elm Street and Route 18.

A graveside service for Michael Zaritt will be held Tuesday at 11am at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue Cemetary off Plainville Road.

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