On Friday the !3th, my wife called me to make me aware that we "lost" a great man and an example of a great father. I was "stunned" and had to cut our conversation short. I was overwhelmed and just plain saddened that we all lost another great American. Tim came from Buffalo, and I came from Syracuse and we both shared the upstate proudness that made it a great place to be "brought" up. Family values, respect, dignity, and honesty. Basically a "blue collar" region, the work ethic was a strong attribute but education was always stressed for the next generation. Sunday mornings was Tim Russert time in our household and then off to church. Many times I would "talk" to the screen and hoped he heard me. Some chance!! I wanted to tell him to not to forget your "roots" and use it when being "tough but fair" with anyone who "dared" to come on the "set" not prepared. He never let me down. So church was always a time to reflect and thank God for guys like Tim and life in general. I lost a cousin In Buffalo several years ago. He was around the same age as Tim. He taught for 35 years in the "roughest " part of Buffalo at Kensington West and I always visited him when in town on business. He did not get to enjoy his "fruits" of his labor but his sons and students are examples of his principles that live on today . I thank God everday that I have made it through several serious illnesses but Rock and Tim did not. Life is "strange" and filled with "quirks"but ..... Luke, you will live life just like your Father wants and wanted you to. His principles will live on and his memory will never be forgotten. Like I tell my daughter, go get 'em Luke and never give up. Life is a gift and your Dad always gave. Pray God he keeps you safe. Smile, stand tall, be proud, and remember....... Go Bills. Our deepest sympathy and condolences.

This world will never be the same without such a kind, gentle man asTim Russert and my prays and thoughts are with his entire family. You will be greatly missed, but you will never be forgotten.

Just a week or two ago I was watching Meet The Press and thought to myself how amazing Tim Russert was as a host and a person. I only began watching Meet The Press a few months ago, and from the first episode I watched, I was hooked. Tim Russert was a joy to watch. He had such a deep understanding of the political world that allowed him to ask the best, toughest, and most informative questions. His personality shined through even in the midst of complex political discussions. His voice was pleasant to the ear and his presence there on my tv screen was somehow comforting. Sunday mornings will never be the same with any other host at the helm of Meet The Press, and the remainder of this election year will seem to be missing something. My prayers and deepest condolences to Tim's family, friends, and colleagues. He will truly be missed, not only by those who knew him personally, but by the entire nation.

My wife and I would always be late to Sunday School because we just couldn't leave until we finished watching Meet the Press and Tim Russert. When we heard the news last Friday of his passing, we were in shock. No more would we be able to see him pose the tough questions that needed to be asked of those in government that we, the American people, needed answers to. No more would we be able to see someone fully display their feelings about their faith on television like Tim did every Sunday, something which today is all too rare and is considered politically incorrect. No more will we see the pride and joy in his eyes as he spoke about his son, his family, and his father. To his family, we share in your grief. I grew up in a small town in West Virginia, a state which takes a lot of abuse much like Tim's Buffalo. But, like him, I take pride in telling people that's where I grew up. He was a unique individual whose likes we'll not see again. God Bless You, Tim.

Wow. I saw the interview with Luke on the Today show. What a great young man! Very well spoken and perfect to take over his dad's job if he so wishes! It's nice to see a good family and hear all the nice stories. Yes, it was a shock that Mr. Russert died, but so much good has come out of his life and death. That's the way it's "suppose to be!"

Getting ready for Sunday morning church will not be the same.We always had to leave just as the show was about to end,but we enjoyed it to the very second we had to walk out the door.You will be missed.

Rest in peace Tim. I feel like I've lost a friend.

As a young American, my first opportunity to vote in our last presidential election was a great honor. Wanting to make the right decision and educate myself on the candidates and issues was extremely important as well. I started watching Meet the Press and was awe struck by the man with such stature and poise hosting the show. Tim introduced me to politics and gave me the desire to learn more about the issues of my country and those we choose to lead it. I am forever grateful for the knowledge he gave me over the years and will truly miss his voice that I have become so accustomed to hearing every Sunday morning. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Russert family.

I was so very impressed by Luke Russert's Today Show interview - I can see why his Dad was "so proud to be his father". It is a blessing to realize that we have Luke Russert for a long time thanks to his wonderful parents. "Always remember to forget, the things that made you sad, never forget to remember the things that made you glad." Thank you Tim Russert so much. Glad is good at this very sad time. You are the best without a doubt. Thank you.

You will certainly be missed in our household Mr. Russert. You were terrific. You cared and you were filled with love for your fellow man and your country. It showed! Our condolences to your family. Pam and Rick Wood Littleton, Colorado

I send my condolences to The Russert Family. He was very informative and joy to watch. I am sad to see him go. All I can say he is in the best hands.

Usually a news buff that is up-to-the-minute, I was driving to my parents' house in Bangor, Maine when the news had broken about Mr. Russert's sudden passing. It was not until I walked in through the front door that my father confirmed the tragic happening. Like millions of others my father & I enthusiastically read "Big Russ & Me." In fact I bought the book as soon as it was released and made a very fast read of it, thirsty to read each and every page. Enjoying it as much as I did, I could not wait to present the book to my father for him to read. He consequently passed it along to my older brother to read - continuing the father & son bond that the book represented. Years later I received a phone call from my father to let me know to expect something in the mail. Within a few days I received Mr. Russert's follow-up book. My father read it and passed it along to me. We laughed over a few of the stories, naturally relating to some more than others. Being raised in a Catholic family , it was easy to relate to Mr. Russert's background. Appreciating and loving sports and the comraderie, it was easy to relate to Mr. Russert's passions. Respecting the truth and tough questions that life sometimes asks, it was special watching Mr. Russert work on Meet The Press and make commentaries regarding political issues/debates/primaries/elections. How fitting for Mr. Russert to pass away on Father's Day weekend as I was travelling to be with my own father. My deepest condolences to the entire Russert family. With Mr. Russert being in the public eye, he was truly loved, admired, and respected by millions. The world is certainly emptier than it was prior to last Friday afternoon.

On an unlucky Friday 13th, we returned home late to the shocking news of Mr. Russert's death. In haiku style, that night I penned this poem for Tim. Buffalo Boy Electoral muse, Big-hearted Buffalo boy, We will carry on. After watching Luke Russert on the Today Show on June 16th, I think that the appropriate third line of that poem should be: "Luke will carry on." He, his mother and Big Russ and the Russert Family will remain in our thoughts and prayers. I just completed forty years of teaching government and political science courses, first in a Catholic junior high school in Fort Wayne, Indiana and then in American colleges and universities. Tim was my Sunday sentinel and political "truth-sayer." He became America's political conscience and my favorite political mentor. Whatever political wisdom Tim shared with me, I always shared with my students. Although we never met, I truly felt that Tim was a close friend. We will all miss the big bison, and here, near the Tallgrass Prairie, we hope that his spirit and political beliefs will always help keep America free. Dr. Forest Redding, Jr. 28 Wilderness Road Enid, Oklahoma 73703

Sunday morning will never be the same. The fresh style of journalism and frank talk in this time of important election year is so going to be missed. My condolences to all family members including the NBC team who have really been in shock.

Praying you’ll find comfort knowing that the one you love is home now‚ free… …at peace in the presence of God. May God Bless you and give you peace. Tim may be gone, but we will always have him in our hearts. Tim was like a family member to many families out there and will truely be missed by all. ~ Sue, Washington State.

I thought I would share my grief with you over the loss of Tim Russert. I grew up watching Tim on Sundays and every other night he would appear on the screen as I have done for the past 15+ years. I’ve clung to his every word during this extended primary season. Now I feel like the ship’s wheel has broken off and I don’t how we are going to get on. But, then that would be committing a cardinal sin in Tim’s estimation…”thou shalt not whine.” I suppose we would be doing him a great disservice not to pick up the baton and run with it showing him how much we’ve learned under his coaching and tutelage. What scares me and worries me the most is that we no longer will have that journalistic moral compass to guide us and by “us” I mean our country. That’s something that can’t necessarily be passed on as we see every day in the existing pool of quasi-journalist/game show host/commentators. The journalistic airwaves have evolved into a wasteland of misinformation, packaged, sanitized and marketed to please the shadowy commercial interests paying the salaries of those we depend on to present a fair and accurate picture of what’s happening. The truth has become the holy grail and our best knight is no longer the keeper. What do we do? Tim would say many times during this campaign season… “what a country!”. I just wonder if we can still say that now that he is not here to keep us honest, real and fair. I’m whining again. Perhaps the point here is that Tim wants us to keep ourselves honest, real and fair. I was privileged to grow up in some of the best suburbs of D.C….still what I consider to be the center of the universe for me (I now live in Georgia). Whenever I’ve gone back to visit, which is every December now, I knew Tim Russert was close by and I had always wondered if I might bump into him or see him on the street by chance or in a restaurant. It is comforting to know in another respect that he will be laid to rest not far from the inner workings of the machine that drives this nation. But I do hope he is having a great time wherever he is with Pope John Paul, John, Bobby and Martin, his mom, his friends, his teachers and all of his favorite athletes and rock musicians. I’d like to think he will soon begin fabulous dialogues with those whom he admired and always wanted to meet, know and enjoy. I hope he is comforted in knowing that our thoughts and prayers will remain with his beautiful wife, son, father and family. I wish I could attend his memorial service today to pay my respects and to say, “thank you Tim for being you”. Just one of millions that have admired him and loved him, he wouldn’t know me from Adam, but I’m glad he was here to inspire me and that he was here with all of us. What a human being! In Loving Memory Always, Lisa Murad, Atlanta, GA.

timmy we hardly knew ye, and yet such a long goodbye.

I watched Meet the Press for years and Tim was so professional and objective. His kindness transcended the political climate. His generosity and humor was evident in all he did. What a tremendous role model for men and women alike, on how to live your life. He will be so missed.

Sincere condolences to the Russert family. We feel as though we have lost someone in our own family. Thank you for sharing him with us. I know he will not be forgotten and certainly he's in Heaven watching the politicial race with even more insight than he had before, if that's possible. My sympathies.....Sharon G., Illinois

my condolances to big Russ and Maureen and Luke May God bless you and keep you in his hands and those of the hands you touch Sharon Spruill

I have thoroughly enjoyed and admired Tim Russert's work over the years. The only problem with that is I took him for granted, I thought he'd always be with us. My heart goes out to his family and friends for their loss. Tim was a delight to watch on Meet the Press or any other program he appeared on. His love of family, God, politics and life in general can inspire others to live life to the fullest just as he did. Although he passed at 58 he lived a richer, fuller life than most people do in 80 or 90 years. I'm grateful we had you with us for these 58 years yet it was more. God bless you Tim, you will be missed.

I will miss you, Mr. Russert. My prayers and deepest sympathy to your wife, son and father. Deborah Crew Windsor, Ontario, Canada

May the prayers of the Smith Family be with you at this time and going forward. Even though I did not personally know Tim, I always enjoyed watching and listening to him. I'm even more encouraged and proud to know that he was a man of God who was not afraid to stand up and stand fast for what he belived in. God's belssings be with you always.

When I heard the news that Tim Russett had died I cried. It was like hearing a memeber of my family had died. My sympathy to his wife and son. God Bless and know he is in my prayers.

I was shocked to hear of his passing. I will miss him, and I think our country will be less one wonderful human being. He was so real about everything he did, and very passionate about what he did in his life. Truly and good son, father, huband and friend to whom ever he touched. After listening to all the people that he touched how they spoke of him, is a good example for all of us, I know I have leaned a great deal from this sweet wonderful man. Now he is with his God looking downon us and hoping we do good in our lives, and love the way he did.....God rest your beautyful Soul, Tim I will miss you.

TO THE ENTIRE RUSSERT FAMILY AND FRIENDS EVERYWHERE, MAY THE LORD LEAD AND GUIDE YOU THROUGH THIS DIFFICULT TIME. TO BE ABSENT FROM THE BODY IS TO BE PRESENT WITH THE LORD AND THERE IS NO BETTER PLACE TO BE. WE WILL MISS TIM VERY MUCH FOR IS HONESTY AND FAIRNESS ON SUNDAY MORNINGS. MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL!

There's always a moment in life where one feels heartfelt sadness and overwhelming pride toward the loss of certain individuals. Tim offered simplicity in life; sharing what he honored and loved the most --- lest we forget Tim Russert for what he aimed at portraying through his family, his friends, and through his exemplary journalism.

Tim never lost his cool, well not much, he remained, as we would say in the south, a true gentlemen. He wll truly be missed, not only on Sunday mornings, but in every aspect of our daily lives.

I was shocked to hear of Tim's passing. I truly credit Tim with my passionate love of politics and all things "news"...he will be missed. While I never had the honor of meeting Tim, I find myself mourning him like a good friend. I can only imagine the sadness his wife, son, father and siblings are going through. Please know that the entire Russert family is in my prayers and I know with your faith and the loving memories you have of Tim - you will get through this time. Luke, you are a testament to everything Tim held dear and lived for - carry his legacy on in your heart and your deeds through life. Know he is watching over you and smiling!! ~Katie, Michigan

The afternoon came to an end, as I sat and watched the announcement of the passing of Dear Tim Russert. Tears filled my eyes,I felt lost and alone. I just couldn't understand what they were saying, it just couldn't be true. I kept listening to make sure of what I heard. Being from South Buffalo, hearing Tim speak of his love for our wonderful city, the old neighborhood, and real life experiences is what Tim was all about. Washington was where his job took him, but his love was here with his father, in good old Buffalo, NY. I lost another Tim, on that same day, I only hope he was able to make the trip with you by his side, it just couldn't get any better than that. Bless your family and you will always be in my heart. Alice Deubell South Buffalo

I have never sent an e-mail for a famous person. I watched Meet The Press from time to time but not on a regular basis. When I heard that Mr. Russert had passed away I was struck with such sadness. I watched Meet The Press this past Sunday. It was a wonderful tribute to Mr. Russert. What a wonderful man! I am a 46 year old female, recently divorced from a horrible marriage. I had given up on honest, kind, trustworthy people in this world until I learned of the life Mr. Russert led. I personally feel that God wanted Mr. Russert with him for a breath of fresh air. May God Bless his family. He touched mine. Theresa A. Higgerson, Chesapeake, VA

All is Well By Henry Scott Holland Death is nothing at all. I have only slipped away into the next room. I am I, and you are you. Whatever we were to each other, that we still are. Call me by my familiar name, speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Put no effort into your tone, wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Let my name be ever the household name word that it always was, let it be spoken without effect, without the trace of a shadow on it. 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 waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner. All is well. Sunday mornings will never be the same.

The death of Tim Russert is still surreal. He was part of my Sunday mornings and will truly be missed. He was such a good husband, father and son that without a doubt, he is in heaven smiling down at us. Tim, you will truly be missed.

My first memory of Tim was when my daughter graduated from John Carroll and he was the speaker, he left a deep impression with my family. When he spoke everyone listened. Luke, you were so lucky to have him as your dad, he loved you as much as a father could love a child. My thoughts are prayers are with you and your family at this time, but just think, he is up in Heaven talking politics and about his dear son Luke. Marie

May God send the Comforter in your time of sorrow

I was in shock on Friday... I felt like I had lost a close friend. I have been listening to Tim's voice for so many years I felt like I knew him. I always knew he was a good man, he was VERY proud of his family. Tim will be missed on Sunday morning and every other day of the week. No one could cover politics so fairly or objectively. God bless his family may they find strength in God and each other.

Tim Russert has been a part of my sunday mornings for years. I looked forward to his insights and intelligence when interviewing the most influential people in American politics. I have learned so much from him over the years and have become a better American, a better voter, and a better person because of him. Tim Russert made a big difference in my life and with my relationships with my father and my grandfather. I heard him talk about, and read his book about, his love and respect for his father and it motivated me to repair the strained relationship with my father. I now see my own father, and my Grandfather, as my biggest heros. Every Sunday morning we have breakfast at the Coney Island then head over to Dad's house to watch Meet the Press together. Sunday mornings will never be the same. Thanks for the gift of a wonderful relationship with my father Tim. Rest in Peace.

Your father-Luke, your husband, Maureen and your family, so ou there in the public.. I have cried for YOUR loss, because most of us know-loss. The shocking, surealness and disbelief that such a significant being is so sudduenly not HERE. I wanted to send you all a card but .. well, I am glad that I can put this into words. Thankyou for your/his strength. The consistent message from Mr Russert and your family: accountability, love, family and faith. This is what most families do not have, I will take this reminder and work each day to consistently reinforce this in mine and my family's daily life. Luke your eloquence in your statement re: your family on the Today show was beautiful and so sweet. Yor mom and dad and family must be so proud of you and have much admiration for you, it seems much reciprocated by you!! The hard part is here and coming.. the grief and empty feeling fill them with love. Take in those messages from heaven and hear those communications from your dad. Hear them in prayer, nature, family, sports, politics, etc. Those messages/signals come when you least expect them BUT they will make sense. I am sorry for the loss of "Big Russ's son-in law also, I am sure they are together, with other loved ones as well. I wish you all the continued love, peace and support in the legacy of your sweet husband, father, son ...(and so many other titles) Sincerely, Ellen C. Tilton

After my initial shock of hearing of Tim's death, I thought of Father's Day and how much his father and Luke meant to him. I was crushed. It was so heartwarming to hear everyone's comments about him and touching to see how reporters choked up and cried on TV. It showed how much he was loved. I cried along with them as I am now. He left such a legacy. He must be looking down on us and be so proud of how he affected so many lives. My sincere condolences to Big Russ, Maureen and Luke. May God be with you in your sorrow.

My Sunday mornings will never be the same. Luke I am so impressed with you after the interview w/ Matt. I see so much of Tim in you. My heart goes out to you and your family. Wayne - Sullivan WI

I am still stunned by the untimely passing of Tim Russert. His honesty and integrity in the political arena was superb. I always wanted to know what Tim had to say in regards to any situation of politics. I most admired his love for his family and his hometown. Like so many others, I have watched Tim for years...an icon at NBC. I believe we all felt that he was a part of our family. The world is a better place because of his life. My thoughts and prayers go out to his dad, wife, son, sisters, the NBC family and the many friends. To be absent from this body is to be present with the Lord. Rest on Tim.

HE WAS MY SUNDAY MORNING AND MY GO TO PERSON FOR ELECTIONS . HE HELPED ME TO UNDERSTAND ELECTIONS AND HOW THEY WORK . HE ALSO ASKED THE QUESTIONS I WANTED ANSWERS TO. HE WAS A WONDERFUL MAN FROM EVERYTHING I HAVE HEARD. MY HEART GOES OUT TO HIS FAMILY

How I looked forward to Sunday Mornings with Tim - I knew I would get the very best view of whatever topic Tim would be discussing with his guests. His life ended much too soon but what he accomplished and the way he led his life will always be remembered. My prayers are with his family that he loved so much. Rest in peace Tim.

I cannot believe that Tim has passed this life. Luke's interview with Matt on Mon. would have made Tim so proud!! I can't imagine going through an election season without his wisdom. My heartfelt sympathy to his family and the entire NBC family. R. Clark from America's Hometown-Plymouth, MA.

My deepest and most sincere condolences to the Russert family. "Gone Too Soon" Like A Comet Blazing 'Cross The Evening Sky Gone Too Soon Like A Rainbow Fading In The Twinkling Of An Eye Gone Too Soon Shiny And Sparkly And Splendidly Bright Here One Day Gone One Night Like The Loss Of Sunlight On A Cloudy Afternoon Gone Too Soon Like A Castle Built Upon A Sandy Beach Gone Too Soon Like A Perfect Flower That Is Just Beyond Your Reach Gone Too Soon Born To Amuse, To Inspire, To Delight Here One Day Gone One Night Like A Sunset Dying With The Rising Of The Moon Gone Too Soon Gone Too Soon

It took some days to get over the shock about Tim Russert. Then I started to realize he would not be there on Sunday morning and I then cried. He was so important to me to learn all about life, politics and especially giving me a learning lesson on the elections. This election 08 will not be the same and we will sure miss him and his knowledge. My condolences go to the whole Russert family .

I did not realize how much I enjoyed Tim and his program untill I heard of his passing. My feeling of loss is great and I can't begin to know how his family must feel. He made us all better for knowing him and his approach to life. I thank God for having this man in our life. I will appreciate my life and family more now than ever.

sorry for your loss,luke you look like you will make your father and mother proud of you, be there for your mother and your family time will heal your pain. dom from ny

SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT TIM RUSSERT I WATCHES HIM EVERY SUNDAY . I WILL MISS HIM VERY MUCH , FROM CANADA. NOVA SCOTIA

He was everything and more. I loved him so much and there will never be another TV Journalist like him. He was kind, smart, fair and a gental soul. He was blessed by God and he held steadfast in his beliefs. I will miss you my TV friend but I will see you again on the otherside. This election campaign was interesting and great because of TIM Russert! To the family: Tim is sitting at the right hand of the master and He is saying JOB WELL DONE MY FAITHFUL SERVANT. Midge Ivey