I remember this question from several years back. It's interesting to see how some of the new folks ask the same things. I guess when I was new, I probably brought back a thought or two. It's a good thing to do this, get's everyone to think about things and remember.
As a role model for me personally, it's any Chef I have had contact with in my career. BTW, these names are listed in no particular order and all were role models but some also were great friends, Mentors and professional guides;
Willie Reichmuth, Paul Prudhomme, Heinz Schwab, Jean Banchet, Gil Maseri, Tom Catherall, Tom Minchella, David Berry, Kevin Rathbun, Scott Peacock, Edna Lewis, Paul Albrecht, Jerry Klaskala, Henry Haller and Jason Giordanno.