We'll miss Tim Russert

I never met Tim Russert, who died Friday of a heart attack, but I had an appointment with him almost every Sunday morning for Meet the Press. I watched the program to get my dose of political news, but more to watch Russert work. He epitomized what a journalist should be--smart, tough, fair and very well prepared.

An invitation to appear on Meet the Press, which Russert hosted for more than 15 years, was both highly prized and feared by those who entered Russert's den. He could be relentless at times in trying surface a point, often to the extent of making his guests sweat and silently pray for their segment to end. An interview could turn into an interrogation if Russert was on to something and the guest was avoiding questions. I learned from Russert that interviews are all about the homework, being thoroughly prepared and having the "evidence" at hand. He will be greatly missed.

(Credit: NBC)

[GadgetDon]

Agreed. He left some very big shoes to fill. And all sympathies to his family. From the few occasions where it came up on the show, it's clear that he loved them.

[marvelousmartha]

I will surely miss Tim and his boyish smile. His probing questions always elicited responses from his guests which were understood by me and his program on the weekend was the way I followed some of the issues.
Martha I.

[rexworld]

He was one of the best interviewers around, for the reason you cite -- he was always prepared. Nobody could throw some political hack's own words back at them better than Russert.

Any death like this is untimely. But during this election year, his is especially so. His probity and tenacity at digging out the truth were never more important than during an election year.

It's a great loss not just for journalism, but for our democracy. My deepest condolences to his friends and family.

[Fritouj]

I was kind-of in shock after hearing this news today while driving down Wilshire Blvd., and for the first time in a long time, the traffic didn't bother me. I was sad thinking about Tim, his family & friends, and how they must feel. I was like, "what? no way!" thinking how much good he brought to the world, and how talented and nice he was. Yes, GadetDon, he did leave some big shoes to fill. My heart goes out to his family, friends and colleagues on this sad day. :(

[a_username]

I'd like to extend my sincere sympathy to Mr. Russert's family, and to all of his friends, of whom I'm sure there are many.

[mrfurgi]

Wow, I just can't believe this. What a wonderful Journalist. My husband wouldn't leave the house on Sundays till he wacthed his show Meet The Press. My Deepest Condolences to His Wife and Son Luke. TIM RUSSERT YOU SURE WILL BE MISSED! We love you!

[poochie51]

When I came in from work today my mother told me of the news about Mr. Russert, I couldn't believe it. For some reason when it came to politics I felt I could trust whatever he said, if Tim said it I could believe it. To his family my thoughts and prayers are with you, just take confort in knowing your husband,father and son touched many lives .

[eyp1937]

I AM SO VERY SORRY TO HEAR THAT TIM RUSSERT HAS DIED. i WILL MISS HIM ON SUNDAYS. MEET THE PRESS HAS BEEN A FAVORITE OF MINE. TIM WAS THE REASON I WATCHED THE SHOW. HE WAS ABLE TO MAKE IT SIMPLE SO WE NON-POLITICALS COULD UNDERSTAND . ELLY PRATT

[CanadianGeezer]

Eloquent and yet aware of what questions we commoners appreciated being asked of those who walked the larger stage.

Kind and wondering eyes and an strong sense of public responsibility tied with love of family and community. Tim had the strength of the eternal ethic of faith in the goodness of men & women.

You always felt that he was earnestly after the larger issue and story that could be found upon due and diligent query. Mr. Russert had that great integrity and humility that all the decent messengers of the ?Press? comport themselves with.

Rest in Peace for you have made the world a better place in a measurable way ... Truly a man who qualified as a 'Mensch' ? just praise for one who stepped out from the heart of his Catholic upbringing but retained all its moral and ethical precepts in his daily duty.

[nccwilliams]

I'm in the navy and I welcome Tim in my house every sunday to here the good news I will miss him and I ask GOD to bless his family and keep them strong.
love you Tim.

Chief Petty Officer James V Williams US Navy

[nccwilliams]

I'm in the navy and I welcome Tim in my house every sunday to here the good news I will miss him and I ask GOD to bless his family and keep them strong.
love you Tim.

Chief Petty Officer James V Williams US Navy

[gbroo6]

This man will be missed by many people who have never met him including myself. He will be missed not only for his talent, but more importantly for being a decent, honest and fair person. I think thats what most of us were so attracted to and t.hat is what I admired most. I thoroughly enjoyed watching him. My prayers are with his family.

[jandeforge]

To Mrs. Russert, Luke and Big Luke:
I extend my condolences. You know he is in the presence of his God and our Mother Mary. Treasure your memories! Janet DeForge, Florida

[jandeforge]

To Mrs. Russert, Luke and Big Luke:
I extend my condolences. You know he is in the presence of his God and our Mother Mary. Treasure your memories! Janet DeForge, Florida

[FrancieM]

I feel as if I've lost a member of my family. TIm always was so friendly, down-to-Earth while being extremely knowledgeable. The love he had for his work was so apparent. He truly was thrilled that he was being paid to do what he loved so much. My condolences to his wife, son and extended family.