"He was a hands-on manager and a manager of detail, but he gave you the full reign to do you job — but he expected you to do it. He has that uncanny memory and remembers everything he told you to do," Mortimer said.

"It was not uncommon for me to be called to his office. He was the adviser to church printing services, Mortimer said. "I got a call one day to come to his office. When I walked into the office there was Brother (James E.) Faust as well as Elder Monson. Elder Monson asked Mortimer if he would fill a new vacancy as the Deseret News' publisher and editor. "How much time do I have to think about it?" Mortimer asked. "About 30 seconds," was the reply. "What do you do? You say 'absolutely — yes."'

Elder Monson was chairman of the Deseret News board of directors when Mortimer took the paper's top job, giving the two men regular opportunities to interact. After President Gordon B. Hinckley pulled church general authorities from service on corporate boards, Elder Monson "never lost his interest (in the newspaper) and he never lost his care and concern; and he was always available for a telephone call — his wisdom and understanding made him a very valuable person to the good of the newspaper. "

"I always felt like he was the perfect example of a workaholic. He is always working hard. At one time I think he said he could get by on four hours of sleep a night if ne needed to," Mortimer said.

"He expected those who worked with him to work with excellence. He expected us to do our very best."

Mortimer has had serious health challenges since his retirement in 2000, including three hospitalizations. "Somehow, some way, he found out. He came to the hospital personally to my room to visit with me and give me blessings. The compassion he showed and tender concern he showed I'll always remember."

"I know he did that with many, many others. He was a great hospital visitor. It was always a time of comfort and compassion and encouragement, through his visit and his blessings.

Elder Monson also issued a church calling as a regional representative. "When he set me apart as a regional representative, he made an interesting comment. He said, 'Are you happy with this call?' I said, 'Yes.' He said: 'Good. I want you to be just as happy when you are released."

Stephen Hadley, returned Canadian missionary, State Industrial Board member

"Many have mentioned over and over gain his remarkable memory. That I think is a significant attribute of President Monson's. He seems to recall events and people, not just their names but something about them.

"He seems to find spiritual things that the normal person might not see as spiritual. When he tells you about it you recognized what you're missing, what you've missed in that event.