Andrew Hauptman

Chairman and C.E.O. of Andell Holdings, producer of upcoming film State of Play
"As a pediatrician, my dad spent every day of his career working extremely hard to help children," Hauptman says. "I am in awe that his career was so clearly a gift, not only to the children he cared for but also to him—as his work greatly enriched his life. He taught me that it takes a lot of effort and hard work to succeed at anything, and he led by example, teaching us the merits of hard work whatever the endeavor."

George Lois
Former ad executive and art director for Esquire
Harry Lois, a Greek immigrant, worked from 4 in the morning to 10 at night in his Bronx flower shop. "My father taught me to work hard," says his son, who created a decade of covers for Esquire in the 1960s, iconic campaigns such as "I Want My MTV," and a music video for Bob Dylan. "To this day I don't know how to sit down for an hour without working."

Kevin Fennessey
C.E.O. of Absolut
"As a Depression survivor and a P.O.W. during World War II, my father learned how to treasure every day," Fennessey says. "He gave me this advice—pay attention to the details, but enjoy each day. I appreciate that fully and take that to heart every morning."

Mike Volpi
C.E.O. of Joost
Volpi's father was fond of sayings. "One of my favorites is a Chinese saying that goes, 'In pure water, no fish,'" Volpi recalls. "In life, you have to be prepared to take a little risk, go where things aren't so clean and clear—there you will find opportunity." How's he taking that advice? "Well, I work at Joost."  

David Adler
C.E.O. of Bizbash
Adler's father, Warren, has penned more than 28 novels and short-story collections, including The War of the Roses. Now 81, he's coming out with two more books this year. "My dad has the energy of a 23-year-old," Adler says. "He's out every night. New York is his permanent summer camp." Which makes the younger Adler look forward to his own later years. "Age is just a state of mind," he says. "My father taught me to be in charge of your own destiny."