While people are going to focus on his impact in physics and science in general, and rightfully so, I've experienced a greater impact from his life.

I had a close friend of mine who was wheel chair bound. For him Hawking demonstrated the possibility of people accepting him for who he was and enjoying his company irrespective of any perceived differences. He wanted to interact, have friends, build relationships, and this was something that was more expected as a result of Hawking's public profile.

Ultimately he served as not just a role model, but someone who expanded awareness that those in wheelchairs were people too.