NORTHBOROUGH, Mass. "He never ever failed to help another operator" is the way one former business associate and long-time friend remembers Mike Ritchie of Ritchie Bus Lines.

Mr. Ritchie died late last month after a long struggle with diabetes. He was 59.

Mr. Ritchie was universally loved and respected by New England coach operators because of his willingness to bend over backwards to be helpful, say his former colleagues.

"He was one of the hardest working, most friendly and ethical owners in the New England motorcoach industry," said one.

"When many of us called Mike, we were asking, Can you help me out? And the consistent response from Mike was, Ill be happy to, what do you need?"

Industry friends describe Mr. Ritchie as one of the industrys "bright lights," a low-key individual with a fun-loving nature, a lot of energy, a great sense of humor, and generous to a fault. "A very special person."

One also noted that Mr. Ritchie was positive and strong throughout the course of his battle with diabetes.

Mr. Ritchie was raised in Northborough, the son of Robert and Mildred Ritchie. The senior Ritchies operated Ritchie Bus Lines, which was founded 50 years ago. Mike Ritchie was president and owner of the company at the time of his death.

Mr. Ritchie served as selectman for the Town of Northborough for six years; was an associate member of the local American Legion Post, and a golfer.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his widow, Dianne; two sons, Shawn and Timothy; a daughter, Amy Ryan; two sisters, Sharon Nesvold and Donna Ure, and a brother, Stephen.

Memorials in Mr. Ritchies name have been established with the American Diabetes Association, Attn: National Call Center, 1701 N. Beauregard St., Alexandria, VA 22311, and the American Legion Scholarship Fund, c/o Don Starkey, P.O. Box 234, Northborough, MA 01532.