Remembering Tim Russert

jeanette, Nashville, Tennessee — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 23:01:30 GMT

I am heartbroken. I feel like I have lost a brother, a friend. This speaks volumns as to the kind of soul That Tim Russert is, that such gut-wrenching pain can be caused by the loss of a man that I have never met and sadly now will never get the chance to. May we all aspire to be the patriot, leader, mentor, father husband and friend that was Tim Russert.

He will leave an indelible mark on the world of politics, may we make him proud this historic election year and may we honor him by waking up on that Tuesday in November and going to the polls with him in our hearts.

You will be so so missed my friend. Walk with the angels.

J.Culpepper

Remembering Tim Russert

Barbara Morgan,The Dalles Ore — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 23:07:30 GMT

Thanks to all of you who in this difficult time have shared your experiences and feelings. You've humanized both Tim and yourselves making you not just comentators but people who grieve and can hardly believe Tim's gone, just like the rest of us,your viewers. Please take care of yourselves and know that Tim's appreciated,loved,prayed for and watching over those he loved and cared for.

Remembering Tim Russert

LH, Middletown, OH — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 23:10:48 GMT

My condolences to Tim's family. I always enjoyed watching him on Sunday morning. He seemed like such a nice guy, which is unusual in the media. Watching the tributes on tv validates my insticts. My father died of heart disease. Why is heart disease such a silent killer? We need to have new tests to detect heart disease. A stress test the morning he died would not have shown the blood clot that killed him. Please, America, forget about the profits made by the insurance and drug companies. Why can't we find a cure or treatment for the killers of America? It is a sin!!!!

Remembering Tim Russert

Bigbendcat — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 23:16:06 GMT

Well said. Thanks, Chris.

Remembering Tim Russert

Melissa, Austin, Texas — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 23:39:47 GMT

Thanks Chris. I'm absolutely heartbroken from this loss, and its really comforting to hear Tim's praises expressed in the Chris Matthews way. I love all of you guys (and gals) over at MSNBC.

Remembering Tim Russert

Ruth Stives, Easton, PA — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 23:41:03 GMT

The stunningly incomprehensible reality of the loss of Tim Russert will be with me for a long time. I never paid too much attention to politics - particularly primary election politics - until I began to watch Meet the Press. I have learned so much about the election process, as well as how to take the true measure of a candidate, from watching him. The joy is in knowing his legacy will be carried forward by colleagues who understand and appreciate his standards. The sorrow is in knowing that it's happening all too soon.

Remembering Tim Russert

Kathy Smith, Indianapolis, IN — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 01:13:16 GMT

I was stunned when I heard it and felt like I had lost a member of our family. The first thing that crossed my mind when I woke up this morning was, "Tim Russert is gone...he's really gone." I grew fond of him when he appeared with Imus and they talked about politics and then their boys...and, of course, election nights won't be the same without him.

Remembering Tim Russert

B Kristo, Kailua, Hawaii — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 02:19:37 GMT

Well said, Chris. It seems strange to have such strong emotions for someone I have never met. However, it demonstrates the power of individuals in your profession as they enter our lives on a regular basis. From what I could see, he took this responsibility seriously. He never seemed to take it for granted. I hope to be able to use his example to inspire a love for country in my own son. We will miss you, Tim. Thank you for all your service.

Remembering Tim Russert

Roy J. Gustafson — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 03:14:36 GMT

Say it Ain't so!!!

This is a loss for all of us! When I first learned of Tim's untimely passing...I immediately got on the phone and shared this sad news with my wife as if a family member had been lost to us.

Tim Russert was a national treasure because he was truly one of the "good guys" that asked the tough questions without partisan bias. The questions he would ask were the questions I was seeking answers for from our political leaders. Tim was particularly good at pressing the issue and not accepting "talking Points" or "spin" from his guests.

I am sure Tim is in heaven....sitting around a table with the likes of Brinkely and Murrow discussing politics with Kennedy,Eisenhower,and Reagan.

I will miss him on Sundays.....

Remembering Tim Russert

jle, rushville ohio — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 03:21:21 GMT

Thank you, Chris, for commenting on the great loss of Sunday morning's "must see" host. I've watched a lot of coverage these last 2 days and it seemed you were glaringly absent. I was so hoping those old rumors weren't true, as I love you both. I have been so affected by Tim's sudden passing. I am genuinely shocked and sad. My condolences to his family and friends.
Just a fan with a broken heart, jle

Remembering Tim Russert

Deborah, Glennville, Georgia — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 03:23:20 GMT

We'll miss him! So sorry that he is gone.

Remembering Tim Russert

Donna Bailey-Thompson, Springfield, MA 01128 — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 03:38:46 GMT

Chris, I hope this passage gives you comfort as you mourn the sudden passing of Tim Russert. Towards the end of the movie, The Shawshank Redemption,when Red (Morgan Freeman) is musing (in a voice-over)about his relationship Andy (Tim Robbins),he says, "Sometimes it makes me sad, though, Andy being gone. I have to remind myself that some birds aren't meant to be caged, that's all. Their feathers are just too bright, and when they fly away, the part of you that knows it was a sin to lock them up does rejoice. But still, the place you live is that much more drab and empty that they're gone. I guess I just miss my friend."

Remembering Tim Russert

Kathy O'Donnell, Havertown, PA — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 05:19:22 GMT

I am still in shock! I loved Tim and couldn't wait to hear what he had to say - especially about the elections - because I knew whatever he said was always right! I am a political junkee and I can't imagine the upcoming months without him!! I feel like I was sucker-punched when I heard the news of his death - I keep watching the news because I'm waiting for someone to tell me it isn't true!!

Oh to be a fly on the wall watching him interview God! "Let me show you this clip and you can comment on it on the other side!" God has his work cut-out for him!

My sympathy to Tim's family - including the NBC/MSNBC family, and all of us who considered Tim part of our family!

Remembering Tim Russert

Eric, St. Louis, MO — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 15:23:02 GMT

With the passing of Tim Russert, we lose not only a great man, but a critical asset to American politics. Tim provided an additional check and balance to the three branches, acting as the last refuge for the truth-seeking American, a place where politicians of every party understood and respected that rhetoric and spin was not only insufficient, but unacceptable. The loss of Tim Russert will prove to weigh as heavily on this nation as the loss of such great leaders as JFK and MLK. He will not be forgotten.

Remembering Tim Russert

Howard Gillard, Columbia, South Carolina — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 15:53:08 GMT

(I am resending this comment because it errored out on the first try.)

My family is deeply saddened by Mr. Russert's passing. Like many Americans, our interest in politics has been invigorated by the the recent campaigns for the Presidency. Tim Russert has been our guide and tutor through this process and we have learned more about how our country works from him than any civics class could have ever taught. There was a time when I would click past shows like "Meet the Press" with no regard. Now, because of his enthusiasm, we tune in as though it were an epic blockbuster waiting for Tim to get the answers to the questions we all wanted asked of our elected officials!

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and to all of you. We will miss this gentle champion of democracy. Our teacher, our mentor. Tim Russert has awakened us (the first time voters) from our complacency and moved us to become aware of and involved in our (and it is "Ours") political system.

Farewell and Semper Fidelis,

Howard and Merita Gillard

Remembering Tim Russert

N. Coleman, Columbia SC — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 16:18:33 GMT

My condolences to his personal, professional, and TV land family. I won't have to miss or be late for church again. It was just something about watching him at 9am on NBC instead of the rebroadcast on MSNBC on Sunday evenings. Love you Mr. Russset, Luke will carry on and raise the bar even higher for us all.

Remembering Tim Russert

Brad Hoffman — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 17:24:34 GMT

I am deeply saddened about his untimely death and I never had the honor of meeting him. But somehow seeing how all his friends and co workers interacted with him has made a deep impact with me. I am captivated by his stories and those that surround him. I always enjoyed watching him on TV as well as the rest of the MSNBC crew. You all are the best and know I know why TIM RUSSERT... God bless him and his family What a joy he must have been.........

Remembering Tim Russert

G.Witte — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 17:26:13 GMT

Chris-
Thanks for you wonderful words of comfort regarding Tim's untimely passing.
As a devoted fan of yours and of course of Tim's, I too noticed your absence during the last two days. I have not heard any rumors (?) so it was a real mystery that we did not see you during the past 2 days. I hope all is well with you.
I feel like I have lost a member of my family with Tim's passing.
I too am a hugh fan of the political coverage from all you on MSNBC. Keep up the good work!!!

Remembering Tim Russert

Pamela Merritt, High Point, NC — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 18:22:08 GMT

When I heard the voice on radio announce that Tim Russert had died I felt as if someone had punched me in the chest. I could not get my breath began weeping.

I’m not a journalist nor am I a politician. I am just a “regular” person. Even so, Tim Russert seemed as close to me, as intimate a friend as he was to those in the press and political world.

It was Tim w/his white board and “Florida Florida Florida” who first drew me into politics as a spectator sport. Meet the Press became a permanent appointment on my calendar.

Is it possible to have an election without Tim Russert? I don't know...I just don't know.
Tim Russert was the voice of reason. When he spoke, we listened, and more, we believed.

Tim made us better. He enriched our lives. Tim didn’t just live life, he seemed to eat life in big gulps. His enthusiasm…sheer joy…was infectious…and we all caught his bug.

My heartfelt condolences to Tim's family & his friends. He will be missed all across this country, not just by “the industry” but by all of us.

Remembering Tim Russert

John OLeary, Chestnut Hill, MA — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 18:56:30 GMT

You could tell this guy LOVED what he was doing! On primary election nights Tim was beside himself when he found arcane exit poll data from an obscure demographic that argued for some new and unorthodox theory about a candidate's performance. But Tim's enthusiasm sold the product and I always accepted his conclusions! Yes, a giant has fallen.

Remembering Tim Russert

Kathleen Scott, Madison, WI — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 19:03:30 GMT

I cannot stop crying. Yes, he was special, and yes, he was one of America's favorite people. But I don't think that's why my tears flow. It's deeper, more solemn than that. We may all see ourselves as points of light, but he was a brighter light, a role model, a guide. Only a few people in public life can be regarded as angels. My tears flow for a guiding light that has gone out. America has lost one of its precious angels.

Remembering Tim Russert

Shelly, Tucson AZ — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 19:32:06 GMT

Thanks Chris, and my deepest condolences to you and the rest of the NBC/MSNBC family, and, obviously to Maureen, Handsome Luke, and Big Russ. I always knew you guys were a tight family at MSNBC and for these last couple of days I feel as if I am a part of it, and I am a better person because of it. God I miss him, and I will miss his youthful excitement this election. Please help us all get through it Chris. I know it's a lot to ask, but we need you now more than ever. God Bless You.

Remembering Tim Russert

Opal Briggs, Mt. Airy, Georgia — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 19:47:21 GMT

I am still in shock at Tim's passing. I know he will be greatly missed. My sympathy to his wife & son and his father, and all of his colleages.

The one thing I hope to see out of this untimely death, is that his collegues use all of Tim's talent, but most of all, Tim's caring. I'm sorry to say that I can't think of another newscaster, interviewer, or host of their show who even come close to Tim. So many of you have praised him about getting the facts without being unfair. Practice what you all are preaching and you will make Tim proud. There will never be another Tim Russert. God Bless his wife, son,father and his extended family.

Remembering Tim Russert

Joan Davis, Salisbury, MD — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 23:05:02 GMT

I'm sorry for the loss of your friend, Chris. I hope you were as gratified as I (also Irish Catholic) was to hear all the praise for Tim's devotion to our faith, and how that faith shaped him and was such a part of who he was. The comments of Howard Fineman and David Gregory on this topic were especially touching. I pray for Tim's family and for all of you who loved him so much. Peace and blessings to all of you.

Remembering Tim Russert

Denise Hernandez — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 23:08:26 GMT

I am so sad over his passing I have watched him for years. I loved his enthusiasm and what saddens me the most is that he passed before the end of the election. He was so excited about this election I was in awe of him. He will be missed.

Remembering Tim Russert

Jean W. Pierre, Miami, FL — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 03:01:53 GMT

First and foremost I would like to thank God for blessing us with Tim Russert’s work over the years. I pray that God blesses his family and may he rest peace. Mr. Tim Russert was a brainwave for many even when you’ve met him in the flesh. As a matter of fact he inspired me to write my first book titles The Shape and form of terror. I am a big fan of him and he will be missed. I sat in my room last night and started flipping the channels from CNN, MSNBC, to the other news networks all I kept hearing was, how would we go through this election without Tim. My news friends, the answer is, look at his legacy and follow it. As we do he’ll always be close to us. I would like to thank you Mr. Russert for all of your services to this beautiful country we call the Land of the free and the Home of the brave. You were brave as you fight for us now as an angel God wants you free to watch over us.

Rest in peace Tim I love you

Remembering Tim Russert

Barbara Felver — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 03:19:18 GMT

I am so saddened by the loss of Tim Russert. Words cannot do justice to the insights he shared. I am speechless.

If only I could share my heartfelt sympathies with his family and loved ones . . . . his life was a gift to us all.

Barbara Felver

Senior Policy Analyst, Communications

Washington State University

Edward R. Murrow School of Communication

Remembering Tim Russert

Melanie, Cary, NC — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 03:31:03 GMT

After the 2000 election night, we sent Tim a white board and a marker. He returned it to us with "Florida, Florida, Florida" and "Go Blue Streaks" for our John Carroll Univ. team. We will sorely miss our fellow alum. What a gift to our nation. One life can really mean alot.

Remembering Tim Russert

Linda Minor, Winona, MN — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 03:36:41 GMT

I was saddened to hear of Tim's untimely death and will miss him, especially as the campaign continues. The heartfelt tributes from his colleagues and interviewees have been wonderful and bittersweet , but I'm grateful for having been allowed to share them. Tim was a unique man, intelligent but not condescending, an understanding but realistic father ( and son), probing but respectful and seemed like a really nice guy. I liked to have met him, just to see if he was actually like who he was on air. My condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. Though he is no longer present, I'm sure he is with you in spirit, looking down from heaven, still with his Irish twinkle and saying, "Go get 'em, team!"

Remembering Tim Russert

Denise A. Varner, RN,BSN,PHN,CLCP — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 04:37:14 GMT

While listening to the NPR Fri afternoon Newscast Tom Brokaw Interrupted with the awful statement of Tim Russert's Death. I wanted to turn the radio off and stop it. It just said "NO...NO...Wait stop" Then I turned on MSNBC and it was true. I weep for you, Chris and everyone at NBC and his Family, extended family. His heart just wasn't big enough but he lived the life of 100 Tim Russerts, leaving a legacy that I hope others will take from and be just a little bit better the next day than the day before and to set their reporting standards just a little bit higher than the day before. Its not asking much. Yours' is the best newsteam in the business and has been and you will go on to continue to be not without some emptiness as we all will.

You are all blessed to have each other and shared memories.

God rest ye Tim for thou art surrounded by Angels -

Let's pray for those of us left behind that we learn from his lessons that he left behind on Professionalism and Humanitarianism for he will always live in our hearts and minds forever.

Blessings to you All
Denise Varner, San Diego, CA

Remembering Tim Russert

cathy — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 07:08:41 GMT

To honor Tim Russert –
What an true and honest honor to Tim Russert’s memory and ethics it would be if the
time left before the actual day of voting for our President could find all political shows
not allowing half-truths…not allowing unanswered questions….not allowing any candidate
to be demeaned or made fun of……not allowing any topic to have only one side heard.
What a wonderful tribute to Tim Russert’s integrity it would be if the rest of the 2008
political season could truly be spent in honor of Tim Russert. He never allowed us to be
misled. He was the only person the voters knew would be fair. I believe all newscasts,
pundits, reporters, etc. should remember Tim Russert by following his ethics. What a
lovely gift to him…..and us.

Remembering Tim Russert

Penna Omega, Mill Valley, California — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 07:45:27 GMT

Thank you for your words Chris. I too have been heartbroken all weekend... I feel like my uncle has just passed.

Let us live our lives in his memory - with integrity, enthusiasm and honor.

I will think of him November 4th as I place my vote.

XO Tim... See you on the other side!

Remembering Tim Russert

Gail Sorensen — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 12:49:13 GMT

My husband and I have been following the primaries very closely for the first time, constantly tuned to MSNBC. My husband would call out to me "Your man is coming on -- referring to Tim Russert" He was so down-to-earth and 100% geniune. His love for his family was evident and so refreshing to watch. Our hearts go out to them. We feel as if we have lost a member of our family and can't imagine this presidential election without him. Your NBC family is obviously very close and I know this is so very difficult for you all. Let your deep friendships comfort you at this terrible time. God bless you all.

Remembering Tim Russert

Kathy Dorst — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:39:07 GMT

Like so many who have said it before, I feel as though I have lost a family member and that the rest of the world has lost a national treasure. Our hearts are very heavy and will be for a long time but Tim will carry everyone on his shoulders and get us through this. Thanks so much Tim for all you gave us.

Remembering Tim Russert

Troy, St. Croix, USVI — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 14:20:19 GMT

Rest in Peace Timothy Russert. May God comfort your family during this time of bereavement.

Remembering Tim Russert

Andy, Dubai ,United Arab Emirates — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 14:21:11 GMT

I was so sad to hear of Tim Russert's death. He was the first person I looked to for information and the truth about American Politics. He came across as a genuine and passionate man who cared deeply about his country and fellow citizens. I've never felt the desire to write a comment on any subject on the web, but I could not help myself this time. I feel tremendous loss and wanted to say goodbye to someone I will truly miss. May God rest your soul.

Remembering Tim Russert

Eileen Mosey Fond du Lac, Wisconsin — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 15:10:11 GMT

All of you have done a great honor in remembering one of your family at Msnbc. I enjoyed listening to Mr Tim Russert on politics and learned alot in regards to the system and how our government works. When family and friends pass on its hard to believe it and its hard to understand why. However I always remember the good times and the love we have shared with that said person. May you all find comfort knowing that such a person has graced your lives and the lives of so many others. Thanks ` to the Russerts and the MSNBC news family for sharing Mr. Russert with all of us. The world is a better place for this.

Remembering Tim Russert

Regina, Slidell, LA — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 15:48:51 GMT

I was in total shock when I pulled up MSNBC.com and saw this headline. I couldn't believe it. I loved watching him on Sunday mornings. My heart goes out to his wife and son. I lost my husband suddenly just over a month ago so I know how they are feeling. God will bring you through. You and everyone at NBC are in my prayers.

Remembering Tim Russert

Terence J. "Casey" Husband, Ashburn, VA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:05:55 GMT

Chris: Whenever the Bills played the Redskins at FedExField, I had a chance to say 'hello' to Tim during the pre-game period. He always stood on the Buffalo side of the field. I could not get him to switch his position to the Redskins' side. Among current Redskins, London Fletcher remembers Tim fondly. Fletcher went to the same school as Russert (John Carroll University, Cleveland) and played for several years with the Bills before joining the Redskins in 2007.

Slan ta