He is the embodiment of eccentric characters. Who else would actually be able to make the Snozzberries taste like real Snozzberries? He was quite a man, from his purple suit to the taming of a breed of creatures known only to us as Oompa Loompas. He possesses creative genius, with the gift of the Scrumpdiddlyumptious Bar and the ability to frighten small children with chocolate rivers and golden egg-laying geese. He was a Humanitarian with his creation of the Everlasting Gobstopper aimed at allowing poor children to be able to purchase said candy only once and it lasting them a lifetime. He was a skilled vocalist, as evident in his motion picture. Some could even claim that he was a mystic and healer with his ability to inspire the lame to walk again. He has spawned many references in such notable programs as Family Guy, the Simpsons, and The Office. As a philosopher, Mr. Wonka's words of wisdom have inspired millions of lives. "If the good Lord had intended for us to walk, he wouldn't have invented roller skates."  He is truly a notable and legendary character. I mean c'mon, who never wished for a tree that sprouted Gummy Bears?

Specifically though this nomination is of Willy Wonka as portrayed by Gene Wilder, not whatever the book may have led you to dream up, and certainly not the creepy Wonka Johnny Depp gave us.