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SEARCHThe long-time leader of the Ohio-based American Bus and Accessories business has died, with Roberts’ daughter and son-in-law taking over the business.
Roberts took on the former Wayne Corp. dealership in 1986, then renaming the company to what it’s known as today.
American Bus and Accessories, Inc./School Bus Fleet
*Summarized by AI
Yesterday, American Bus and Accessories, Inc., an Ohio school bus distributor, announced the death of the company’s president and owner, Michael A. Roberts.
Roberts’ daughter and son-in-law, Amy and Nick Hart, plan to continue his legacy, building upon the years of guidance, wisdom, and leadership he provided as they lead the company into its next chapter.
In 1977, Roberts graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a degree in marketing and began his career with Wayne Sales, Inc. He never expected this to be the springboard to a 49-year career in the bus industry. After nine years, Roberts purchased the company from Art Schmitt, and in 1986, American Bus and Accessories, Inc. was born.
While representing many of the leading brands in the industry, honesty and loyalty were the cornerstones of his character, according to the company announcement. Roberts “led with integrity, showed empathy to those in need, and took great pride in being dependable and caring for those around him,” the announcement stated. ‘He built friendships, not just business relationships.”
Roberts is survived by his wife, Sylvia Roberts; daughters, Katie Roberts, Amy (Nick) Hart, and Mary Roberts; and a granddaughter expected soon. He was preceded in death by his brother, R. Thomas Roberts, and his parents, Rose Marie Roberts (nee Brown) and Russell Gene Roberts.
According to the company’s LinkedIn, American Bus & Accessories, Inc. was founded in 1955 as Wayne Sales, Inc., taking advantage of an opportunity to become a school bus distributor for Wayne Corporation. In 1986, Michael Roberts purchased the company, and a new corporation was formed: American Bus & Accessories, Inc.
The company said that under Roberts’ leadership, they experienced tremendous growth. Roberts was consistently recognized as one of the top dealers in the country and won countless awards from the manufacturers he represented. However, he was the first to acknowledge that none of the success would have been possible without the dedication, loyalty, and hard work of his team.
“Mike will be profoundly missed and forever remembered,” the company stated. “The outpouring of love, support, and respect from colleagues across the industry is a testament to the kind of man he was and the lasting impact he made on so many lives.”
Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 28, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Agnes Church, 1680 Dixie Hwy, Ft. Wright, KY 41011. Mass of Christian burial will take place following the visitation at 1 at St. Agnes Church, with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers the family has suggested that memorial donations be sent to either the St. Elizabeth Nourish Food Pantry Fund, St. Elizabeth Cancer Center, and/or Covington Catholic High School.
Michael A. Roberts was the long-time leader of an Ohio-based business named American Bus and Accessories.
*Summarized by AI
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