Tim Russert, 1950-2008: Gone Much Too Soon

It's been over a week since we lost Tim Russert, and the wound is still fresh. I can't bring myself to watch Meet the Press yet. I don't want to see another in his chair. I didn't know that he was a Democrat until I looked up Pat Moynihan just now. But he was such a fair interviewer, gilling both party members alike, that I couldn't resist taping his show every single Sunday. I guess I'm lucky in a way....I fell behind for a bit last year, and I have several tapes left to watch. I hope it will ease the pain a bit.

I've watched other shows, and some I tape as religiously, but most just devolve into shouting matches. Tim had class, and his guests had enough respect for him to behave themselves for the most part. No one did it like Russert did. And he will be sorely missed. I'm so sorry he missed the final lap of the 2008 Presidential Race. Not only did he enjoy it, but I think there are many people in this country who followed along simply because his joyous excitement was infectious!

It's such a sudden, and sad loss. My father is just 2 years older than Tim was. I will miss him. And I will miss James Carville and Mary Matilin making guest appearances on his show. It looked like they all had a great time together!

Rest in peace. And thank you from a greatful nation!

Christine Cox of OH 3:40PM June 22, 2008

There is no one today in journalism news who combined the unique qualities of Tim Russert. He was an astute journalist, an investigative reporter /observer with criticalt hinking skills, a compassionate empathizer of the human condition and it's foibles, and an example for those of us who want to integrate the intellectual, spiritual and emotional aspectsof our place in this world. He seemed to have figured it all out and found "his bliss". He had that "Irish glint "in his eye that told you he was sure of who and what he was and had to pinch himself to believe it was all real. You always knew he had passiontely researched and analyzed his subject matter and yet was still open to further fairminded non partisan opinions on whatever the issue might be. He did not tolerate fools.

I have no idea what political party he belonged to, nor should any of us.

He managed to do all this and still project his humanity and share his sheer joy and love of life with all he came in contact with whether in person or over the TV screen.

I will surely miss him. God keep his family and all who loved him.

patricia of FL 3:02PM June 17, 2008

We are all the poorer because of his death. I mourn the loss of a great journalist, author, father and all around decent man. Tim Russert was compelling to watch not only for the content of his brilliant interviews, but how he conducted them with humor, grace and that twinkle in his eye.

I wonder if the public outpuring of affection for Mr. Russert - in part because of his fair minded, non partisan approach to journalism - will go unheeded by many in the news business today who approach their work with a total lack of grace and fairness.

We have lost a truly good man. My condolences to the Russert family.

RGSB of 11:55AM June 17, 2008

while i'm from ireland tim seemed to reflect what one knows and hopes america can and will be again: honest. god rest his soul.

PATRICK O'CONNOR of LA 4:30AM June 17, 2008