Michael G. Zaritt, 72, of New Bedford died Sunday April 27, 2014 at Tremont Rehabilitation and Skilled Care Center in Wareham.
Born in Worcester, the son of the late Dr. Hyman I. and Stella M. (Willis) Zaritt, he lived in New Bedford most of his life. He attended New Bedford High School where he won first place in the Science fair and was a graduate of Bridgton Academy in Bridgton, Maine, and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
Mr. Zaritt was formerly employed as a Longshoreman for Local 1413-1465.
Michael served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Sergeant before being honorably discharged. He was a recipient of the National Defense Service medal and the Air Force Good Conduct medal.
An avid reader and book collector, Michael was very interested in local politics and history, and was a contributor to Spinner Publications. A well-known personality in Downtown New Bedford, he ran for Mayor of New Bedford several times. He was recognized by the State Senate and New Bedford City Council for his work in preserving "Mr. Steadfast", the large historic brownstone eagle statue which now provides the official welcome to the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. He had also been a newspaper publisher, and had a radio show on WBSM.
He is survived by his sister, Judith Ramirez of Aurora, Colorado; his niece, Sara Ramos; his great-niece, Noemi Ramos; and various cousins.
A graveside service will be held on Tuesday at 11AM at Tifereth Israel Cemetery. Arrangements are by the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.