Abdul-Qadir Jilani [may Allah have mercy on him]. His knowledge of the Qur'an and sunnah was vast, but he also would often appeal to his own experiences and the experiences of others when he talked to people one-on-one. He didn't see himself as a know-it-all who was above everyone else. He was a patient and gentle teacher.
Well, not associate, but I admire Al imam Ali Ibn Abi Talib, he was a great warrior and the stories I hear about his courage and fighting skills makes me admire him more.