Tim Russert: 1950-2008

Posted: Saturday, June 14, 2008 1:40 PM by Jen Brown

Image: Tim Russert

On this morning's special tribute to NBC's Tim Russert, Matt Lauer shared his thoughts about his friend and colleague (WATCH VIDEO):

Although we have spent the last two hours or so trying to do justice to the life and career of Tim Russert, my fear is that we have only scratched the surface. It's impossible, I think, for you people at home to know how big a hole we all have in our hearts this morning and how much we'll miss our friend and our colleague, or how we will forever be trying to fill his formidable shoes.

You know, Tim would be the first person to say at one point it is necessary to move on. The new cycle, he would say, demands it. There's an election and so much more to cover. But moving on is much easier said than done when it comes to Tim Russert, because in many ways he defined us here, and I know he elevated us all.

But just think of the feast that awaits him. Right now, he's probably making a list of all the powerful people, the former presidents, the senators, the members of Congress, sitting up there in heaven's green room lining up for the chance to go toe to toe just one more time with Tim. He's probably already made the bookings calls. He's lined up one heck a panel for tomorrow morning. And as is always the case, he is doing his homework, he's getting prepared. When that red light goes on, he'll be at the top of his game. He'll shoot from the hip, he will take no prisoners, God, what a show he will have.

So, Tim, I leave you this morning with the words you've said to me on so many occasions before big interviews and before big moments in my life…

Pal, go get 'em.

We invite you to share your thoughts about Tim Russert by posting your comments below, or by sending an e-mail to Russert.condolences@nbcuni.com.

For more on TODAY's tribute to Tim Russert, click here.

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Comments

I am so sad at the loss of Mr. Russert, it's like a member of my family is gone. I'm always glued to the TV when he was so because he spoke with so much authority on the topic being discussed.

I am sorry he wouldn't be around to witness history in November but then again he knew what the results would be.

Today I salute you Mr. Russert and I say may your soul Rest In Peace and may you find eternal rest.

Blessings to your family.

Yonette Atkins, Buffalo, NY (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 2:39 PM)

What a loss for journalism, what a loss for the American viewers who looked to him for clarity and answers. Our prayers are with his family (his wife, son, father and sisters) and with his family at NBC. He will be missed by so many.

Ingrid, Miami, FL (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 2:48 PM)

Tim Russert was the only newsperson I literally got excited about seeing when he came on for a report on the Today show, Nightly News, or Meet the Press. His insight on politics was second to none, and to me, the absolute best. Tim's knowledge will be sorely missed. My condolences to his family and all his friends and colleagues at NBC. I know you are missing him and his loss is gigantic. I miss him too.

Bob Wood, Fort Dodge, Iowa (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 2:53 PM)

I have not been this sad since Princess Diana died.

April Dahl, Kewaunee, Wi (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 3:00 PM)

What a loss, Sundays will never be the same, but we all know that Tim will be watching over this political season from heaven. What a role model for all of us....what a country that gave us Tim Russert.
John & Anzhela Bahadurian Grand Rapids, Michigan

John Bahadurian Grand Rapids, Michigan (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 3:12 PM)

A truly fine human has left our planet and now we and his family, friends and colleagues are left to muddle through without his wisdom and grace. Such a loss for our country and political process.

Gay Anderson (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 3:27 PM)

I can't seem to believe it, and I can't seem to stop crying. I woke up this morning thinking "It can't be true," and turned on the tv to see Matt Lauer and Tim Russert talking politics - ah, all is right with the world! - only to realize that this was the tribute show for a man we really did lose yesterday.

That jolly face, that child-like wonderment and true joyous fun at the thought of this political campaign, those incredibly sharp insights into everything that was happening politically in this wonderful country of ours. Tim was the nicest, smartest guy to explain it all for us - he was our guiding light and made politics fun and exciting for every viewer. We all felt that we knew him like a brother, like a father, like a friend. If I,just someone who depended on seeing him and enjoying him on television all the time, could feel this sense of sadness and loss, I can only imagine the depth of those emotions for his family, friends and colleagues.

What a special man. We can learn so much from the way he lived his life - as a journalist, as a husband, father and a son. No more Tim Russert. No more white erase boards. No more Meet the Press. It's impossible to think about this campaign without him - but he'd sure want us all to enjoy it, to ask the tough questions of our leaders, and to realize the importance of the privilege of voting in this great country that he loved. We were all lucky to have him, for too short a time. We will miss you Tim.
Gina Way, New York City

Gina Way, New York, NY (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 3:31 PM)

Mr. Russert's political expertise and journalistic skill will be missed by the general public everywhere. He has helped NBC's news coverage of political affairs relevant, entertaining and insightful. All will agree, he will be missed greatly. Our condolences to his family, friends, the NBC News family and others who have benefitted from his extraordinary work, personality and service.

G.D. Berkel, The Haugue, The Netherlands (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 3:33 PM)

Alas, poor Timmy, we harldly had time to know ye. Gone too soon- much too soon.

My sincerest condolences to his family at large-truly the world- that will miss him.

Mitzi G. Silverman, Deerfield Beach, FL (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 3:36 PM)

This presidential election will not be exciting without the man who made exciting and appealing to all of us. I wish I, could express the sorrow I feel, just knowing his family, friends and the rest of America are bearing a loss so profound. Mr. Russet may God rest his soul.

Toufic Nsouli, New York, NY. (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 3:43 PM)

You could always tell how much Tim Russert enjoyed what he did...it came across so clearly on tv every time he was on. I have never been too interested in following politics that closely, but whenever I saw him on the Today Show he had my full attention! What a gigantic loss to our country. He will be sorely missed by all.

Ashleigh, Boston MA (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 3:45 PM)

Sunday won't be the same without you Tim.
Rest in Peace.

Stacey (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 3:51 PM)

A truly fine human has left our planet and now we and his family, friends and colleagues are left to muddle through without his wisdom and grace. Such a loss for our country and political process.

Gay Anderson (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 3:54 PM)

Tears keep pouring over the loss of this wonderful man. He will be missed beyond belief. Thoughts to Big Russ, his sisters , Maureen & his pride & joy, Luke. Bless you all!

Heatheri (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 3:58 PM)

The news of Tim Russert's sudden death still leaves me in shock. I am sad to know I, as same as other American viewers will miss his best insigh politics. The best of the best ! Sometimes I think it's not fair, for someone like him to go when he is still young.

Van Luyen, Orange, CA (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:01 PM)

I knew Tim Russert when he was in his senior year at John Carroll University and I was a freshman. He was a big man on campus, and not just because his height, long hair, and Fu Manchu mustache made him a striking figure. Tim, prophetically, he was the Big Man, assuming one of his first political jobs, the president of the student government. It was an honor to know and work with Tim on the student council and I will always remember his generosity, good humor, and dedication.

Although I am not a fan of "gottcha" journalism, I always tuned in to "Meet the Press" to watch Tim. He was fair, well-prepared, and pointed in his interviews. I could never say "Who knew?" as it was clear from his college days that he was going to go on to do great things. I will miss him terribly.

Cindy, State College, PA (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:01 PM)

The only time I have cried during the last 24 hors
was this morning after what Matt said about Tim.
I was very moved by that and think
that sums up his life the best!
Tim will be deeply missed by many!

Maria Keil (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:10 PM)

I am sure my sentiment is one that will be echoed over and over again...Tim Russert was someone we could trust. I respected and admired him for his journalistic style and the integrity he brought to each interview. I looked forward to spending an hour every Sunday morning with him because I knew I would learn something from him or his guests. Although I did not know him personally, I, too, feel a hole in my heart at his loss. My heart and prayers go out to his family and colleagues.

Maria Solorio, Bakersfield, CA (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:11 PM)

Tim was the best and loved and respected by everyone. My husband and I actually teared up. He will be so missed and impossible to replace.

Prayers and thoughts are with his family. I hope his wife and son pick a organization that people can donate to in his name.

Patsy and Norman Lithco Lodi,CA (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:11 PM)

I'm not one to get involved in politics or watcvhing unmet promiswes by cnadidates but my Sundays's wouldnt be the same without watching "Tim's" program...yes its Meet The Press but it was Tims show.
He definately will be missed and I still feel the greatest coup was when during the election coverage he pulled out the "dry erase board" and his simplicity made it more real................Tim you are a master at doing the best job at whatever you accomplished.

jack pike Phoenix, Az. (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:23 PM)

My heart is so sad at the untimely passing of Mr. Russert. I always enjoyed his apprearances on the Today Show, as well as Meet The Press, and anywhere else we were privileged to hear him. He was clearly brilliant, but still managed the difficult task of explaining complicated politics in a way that was understandable by everyone, but nobody ever felt that he was speaking down to them.

He will be greatly missed by this viewer. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and colleagues. May his memory be for a blessing.

Melissa, Portland, ME (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:26 PM)

I am having a very hard time, crying yesterday afternoon and all day today, he was in our life almost everday. I just can not imgaine how his family and co-workers are dealing with this great loss. The world lost a great man, a mensch.

solange Darwish, Oakland, Ca. (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:28 PM)

Like so many others I am stunned by the early death of Tim Russet. Watching MSNBC's coverage last night and today, I have learned what it is that so captivated my interest in watching Meet the Press. I had never analyzed it before. Your commentators have driven home what it was that earned my value of his style. It was simply his ability not only to ask the pivotal question but also allow for answer. It was the fearlessness of asking, followed by the civility to listen to the response.

May those journalists who remain learn this most valuable lesson.

My condolences to his family and associates.

Thanks, Tim and God Bless.

Donna Millard, Grandview, MO (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:32 PM)

we here in cleveland have especially heavy hearts. tim went to college and law school in cleveland. he was always a shing staar when he would come to town. he will be missed but always remembered.

donna kolis, cleveland ohio (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:39 PM)

He is the only person I have ever enjoyed listening to about politics. Although I didn't always agree with him, I always respected his opinion. He will be missed by all of the closet political analysts in the world.

Kim Squires, Moscow ID (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:41 PM)

What a loss it is. I can honestly say I watched Tim Russert in the morning getting ready for work. He along with Matt Lauer's discussions are what got me involved in the upcoming elections. They worked so well together & kept my interest. I cried immediately when I came home & saw the headline. He seemed so down to earth a "family" man. I pray for his family, friends and NBC. He will deeply missed.

Mary Nemec, Green Bay, WI (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:43 PM)

Hello Lew,

As someone who has been here for over four decades as a politically active, observant adult, I have never seen such an outpouring of grief and news coverage for the passing of a public figure since JFK more than four decades ago. Actors, politicians and even long time news anchors have left this plain with fanfare, but the emotional connection that his co-workers and the public are expressing now surpass anything in recent memory. I, too, relied on his measured questions and revealing insights when making political decisions while having no clue as to his own preferences -- so fair and unbiased was he. I was a fan, and thrilled when he spoke at my son's graduation in 2007, a beautiful speech which revealed his love for truth, hard work, family and responsibility once more for the young people there. Yet, at the end of a life, he appears to be most missed on a personal level. What a great legacy of loyalty, friendship and family values he leaves. I envy those who knew him at this level, but feel privileged to have lived during his time of sharing these things with us.

Lyn Martin
Essex, CT

Lyn Martin (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:44 PM)

I am so sorry for untimely passing of Tim Russert. It is a loss for all of us in the United States. He always asked such tough questions, but he was always fair and what really impressed me that he was never "mean" to others. My family is all saddened by this loss but we are holding his family in our thoughts and prayers and also his entire NBC family.

Shirley R. Rock, Mercer Island, WA (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:46 PM)

Tim was a man of integrity. I always counted on him for the truth regarding the news and especially this upcoming election. As a catholic myself I respect his devotion and his committment. He will be truely missed by me.

Robert R Thomas, Anchorage, Alaska (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:52 PM)

Tim Russert was a national treasure and as such, can never be replaced. His value to all thinking persons was immeasurable. Sunday will never be the same.

David Braverman (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 4:53 PM)

what is the Bruce Springsteen song they are playing on msnbs in tribute to Tim Russert? Thanks

Valerie Fox Parker CO (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:00 PM)

TERRIFIC NEWSMAN!!! WOW!!! I'm just amazed at the explosion of coverage Friday night about Tim Russert on a bunch of channels--I've never seen anything like it for somebody who wasn't a President! It takes a lot to impress me, but this regular guy newsman gradually kept impressing me more and more with his solid work and his pleasant attitude. My best memory of Tim Russert? That's the time he was questioning John Kerry on MEET THE PRESS one Sunday morning, and I was just clicking the channels, and I couldn't believe my eyes and ears! "Senator Kerry, were you in Hanoi in 1969?" It was a big moment to me, because as much as George Bush is a sort of a draft dodger, if Kerry was lying about his combat experience in the Vietnam War that seemed even worse. Flip Flop kept flipflopping, but finally, Russert got him by repeating the same question! "Senator Kerry, were you in Hanoi in 1969?" "I was nearby..." YOU WERE ONE HELLUVA NEWSMAN, TIM RUSSERT!!!

Chari Krishnan, Savannah, Georgia (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:12 PM)

Simply put, Tim Russert will always be in the present tense. His impact can not be overstated. Simply brillant. And simply the best.

Nancy Bendiner Weiss, Bryn Mawr, PA (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:15 PM)

Even my 6 year old is sad about the passing of Tim (first name basis, of course, after watching 6 years of Meet the Press and following the elections closely--he cried when Kerry lost)--he said, "But what will happen to Meet the Press? I love Meet the Press."

Denise Waters, East Wenatchee, WA (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:15 PM)

My wife and I were big fans of Tim Russert. We will miss him on Sunday mornings and everything in the poilitcal world. There will be a big void in this exciting election year and future years to come. I got to believe that Tim will be watching from a higher arena giving political & baseball tips to his beloved Pope John Paul II. Thoughts and prayers to his family, NBC family, and friends. God bless Tim Russert.

Daniel Macias, Denver, CO (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:22 PM)

What a loss....Tim made politics understandable and he was such a nice, decent, down-to-earth guy. Thanks to his family at NBC we are learning what a truly outstanding son,husband, father and friend he was. He will be missed. Sincere sympathy to his family. Barbara Shearin

Barbara Shearin (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:24 PM)

Sunday mornings will never be the same. Even if I couldn't watch I would turn on MTP just to listen. For many years I have tried to read Tim, see what side of the fence he was on. Believe me when I say it could not be done. Those close probably know but for the life of me I could not figure it out. I have never seen so much integritey. He literately meant everything he said. You could see in his face that he thought carefully before he spoke. So much class.

Brenda,Tampa,Fl (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:25 PM)

Daniel Macias, Denver, CO (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:25 PM)

Of all the news shows on the major networks over the years, only Meet The Press, with Tim Russert in the interviewer's chair, defined journalism in such a powerful way. There was no other show I would watch besides Tim's. He was a welcome member of the household every Saturday, entertaining us with his wit, wisdom, and superior interviewing skills. I feel I lost a member of my family yesterday. And what a great father, son, and husband - a genuine human being. He is irreplaceable.

Gary, Gurnee, IL (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:26 PM)

It was such a shock to hear of the death of this giant of TV! Tim Russert was THE one journalist who we could trust to get the issues right. He didn't talk down to or belittle anyone no matter how much he may have disagreed with them unlike some of his colleagues from other networks! He just made sure the guest stayed true to comments/statements that were made in the past. The world has lost a truly wonderful human being. He is now 'home' with God. My family's sympathies go out to his family and the NBC family! Timothy J. Russert, we have all blessed to have known you!! Rest in peace!!!

CJ, Washington, D.C. (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:32 PM)

How great of a person Mr. Russert was that strangers from all over the world have come so attached to him that we think of him as family. We became so attached to him that our hearts is aching and our eyes tear up whenever we see your eternal simle.

On May 6, 2008, you told MSNBC's Keith and Chris after Obama's victory in NC that you wanted to go out to intercity schools and teach history and what we just witnessed.

Mr. Russert, you now live in the hearts of millions of people and we will carry your message to the next generation.

Only if you, Mr. Russert, couls see how much we will miss you and how much you meant to us--people whom you never met.

Waleed, Tempe, Arizona (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:54 PM)

I too am sadden by the news of Tim Russert passing. I woke up this morning early and asked my husband " is it really true? or did I have one heck of a bad dream?" My sympathies to the family.

meg goodstein (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 5:58 PM)

What a loss to all of us. My hear goes out to his Father, wife & son.God bless you all. He will be missed in November by all.

Jan Des Moines Iowa (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 6:02 PM)

My best friend on Sunday morning has passed. My thoughts and prayers are extended to his spouse, Maureen, only child Luke, and to his grief-struck parents. I can't imagine seeing political news ever again without Tim Russert reminding me, "Florida, Florida, Florida!" May G-d bless him and watch over him and assign him the best heavenly interviews.

BK (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 6:02 PM)

Tim Russert was a genuine family man and professional newsman. You could always see that he was trying to get the correct information out to the public - but not just as a reporter, instead as a friend. The best thing about Tim was his infectious smile and laugh. My husband and I wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the Russert family and his fellow colleagues at NBC. This is a tremendous loss to the country.

Janice Cramer, Miami, Florida (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 6:03 PM)

My deepest sympathy to Tim Russert's family and his "family" of friends at NBC; his death is an incredible loss for all of you. I have enjoyed watching him on the Today show and Meet the Press, especially this political season when, the morning after a primary, I would spend a few extra minutes in bed waiting to hear his take on the previous day's events.He certainly will be missed.

CG, Manchester, NH (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 6:19 PM)

I am not a big political person, but when Tim was on the TV, I would catch myself watching and having debates with my husband. It seems he not only asked the tough questions, but he got the whole world involved with his questions. He will truly be missed. Why is it that always the good ones go first?

Cheryl Jordan, Plainfield, IL (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 6:19 PM)

My deepest condolence for all of us. RIP Mr. Russert!

Ayudi, Las Cruces, NM (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 6:20 PM)

An Irish Funeral Prayer

Death is nothing at all.
It does not count.
I have only slipped away into the next room.
Everything remains as it was.
The old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged.
Whatever we were to each other, that we are still.
Call me by the old familiar name.
Speak of me in the easy way which you always used.
Put no sorrow in your tone.
Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes that we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me, pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was.
Let it be spoken without effort
Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was.
There is unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?
I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner.
All is well. Nothing is hurt; nothing is lost.
One brief moment and all will be as it was before.
How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting, when we meet again.

Source: derived from a sermon written by Henry Scott Holland and delivered in St. Paul's (London) on 15 May 1910, at which time the body of King Edward VII was lying in state at Westminster. Although not originally derived from Irish writings, versions of this sermon have been used at many Irish and Catholic funerals over the years.

Lora, Wakefield, RI (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 6:22 PM)

Tim Russert, a man of integrity, a man of God. Respect for his parents, his son, wife and his fellow man.
Tim was all about seeking out the truth from everyone. My heart goes out for his family and colleagues. Tim has left a large hole in their lives, and the lives of so many others. He is greatly missed.

Gail, Raleigh, NC (Sent Saturday, June 14, 2008 6:22 PM)

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