Best example of ATC saving my ass (Actually not ATC, but FSS over the cellphone and via a landline to ATC):

Flying a flight- night, IFR (800/1sm) in a single engine Piper. Total electrical failure shortly after departure from an airport under class b, and the plane couldn't climb out of the soup. Filed to an airport in mountainous terrain. Short story is that I ended up calling FSS and getting a patch through/relay to the controller who helped to find a suitable alternate. Saved my butt that night.

Best controllers: ORD hands down. Any of them- tower, ground, or approach.

Worst controllers: IAD ground. Too much micromanagement and a total cluster most of the time.

Most laid back: Clyde in the IAD ramp tower (MWAA).

Best dressed: Can't remember his name, but the controller that wore flip flops, and the bright purple hawaiian shirt with mustard stains at the tower that I flight instructed at.