WILLOWICK, Ohio -- Willowick Mayor Richard Bonde died Saturday morning, police say.

The exact cause of the mayor's death is not known. He was battling cancer, City Council President Bob Patton told cleveland.com.

"The citizens of Willowick lost their champion," Patton said. "He loved the city and devoted his life to it. He served the city for more than 40 years. He was passionate about the city and its residents. Our hearts go out to his family."

The mayor died at Lake West Hospital in Willoughby, Patton said.

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