It was a sight you don’t see every day — approximately 50 towing trucks or auxiliary vehicles lined up to head out on a 15-mile convoy, paying respect to Harold Ruby, who died at the age 75 on Oct. 15.

Ruby was the patriarch of Ruby’s Towing Company, an Issaquah business since 1962. He and his wife, Susan, lived in Issaquah for 47 years.

“He did dedicate his entire life to this community,” said his daughter, Carri Ruby.

To honor Harold, several tow truck companies, AAA, U-Haul and others formed a procession Monday from Issaquah to the TPC Snoqualmie Ridge Golf Course to celebrate his life.

Towing companies from as far away as Everett to Renton showed up in force. U-Haul had seven rigs represented. Ruby was one of U-Haul’s vendors for years.

“Anytime a customer was in trouble, even if it was 2:30 in the morning, he’d be on his way,” said Brandy Eide of U-Haul. Her husband, Chuck Eide, said Ruby would do whatever he had to for a U-Haul customer.

“Harold was the kind of man who said what he meant, and meant what he said,” Chuck Eide said.

Among the many companies represented were Accurate Towing, American Towing, Coalfield Towing, Mercer Island Towing, Mary’s Towing, Lake Sawyer Towing, Four Sons Towing and Columbia Towing. There was no competition as they lined up for the procession, only respect.

Dave Krause, with Choice Insurance, said Ruby was a client for years. Krause specializes in insuring tow trucks.

“Harold was a great guy — really conscientious,” he said. “He loved doing what he did — no games — a real up front guy.”

Issaquah Police anchored each end of the procession, with Carri Ruby leading the way driving a tow truck. She said it had been awhile since she drove one, but she looked confident as they drove off — no doubt, with dad leading the way.