"He embraced life and made me feel a little more comfortable with the fact that you can be funny and still be spiritual," Fielding said. "He taught me that the gospel wasn't about being serious all the time. It's a place to have a good time and laugh, too."

Said Rogers: "He was like a grandpa to us. He was serious when he needed to be, but he could crack a joke and lighten everyone's life."

But it's not just about jokes. Those whose formative years coincided with President Hinckley's time as prophet will long remember his teachings, as well.

Landon Bodily, a University of Utah student from Lehi who recently returned from the Chile Conception Mission, said the prophet's emphasis on temple work made a strong impression on him. President Hinckley dedicated 85 temples and rededicated five others during his service.

"As a returned missionary, it has influenced me to make better use of the temples," Bodily said. "When I was in Chile, he rededicated the Santiago temple, and it was very impressive to see how the members appreciated him."

For McKenna Henkel, a 17-year-old from Orem, President Hinckley's encouraging of members to "stand a little taller" and his tireless work ethic will be remembered.

"That always kind of rang in my head," Henkel said. "When you see this 97-year-old man working hard every day, it's inspiring. I thought, 'If he can do it, I can do it."'

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Contributing: Twila Van Leer, Elizabeth Stuart, Aaron Shill