I'm truly sorry for your loss and I know from personal experience what you are going through. 4 years ago on June 12th my father died of a massive heart attack instantly. He was 59. The shock of losing someone whom I thought was immortal was devastating. You will learn to breath again and in time to live again. Everytime I see a picture of Tim, I cry. I cry first for the family and then I cry for the rest of us who will miss his smile. I pray more research will be done for the rest of us living so that Heart attacks will stop taking so many great people in their prime and leaving so many spouses, children, and grandchildren with hearts that feel as though they will never heal. May God deliver peace to you in your time of need,

It is hard to believe that his presence will not be in our living rooms. He was fun to watch and to listen to. My heart goes out to his family who he loved so much. I am amazed how Luke is showing such maturity and I am sure that was a result of his loving parents. My faith has helped me many times and I know that Maureen, Luke , Big Russ and his sisters will be comforted in knowing and believing in our God. Thank you Russ for coming into our lifes and making us proud to be Americans. May God bless each and everyone of you. Go in peace. Robert Bickford 12 Webb Ave Malone, New York 12053

Tim Russert was truly a fine American. We'll miss seeing his smiling face on TV. My first husband died from a massive heart attack while I was driving him to the hospital. Our sympathy and prayers to his wife, his son, Luke (who is a fine, young man), and Big Russ. Love and Prayers, Carl and Sara Ohall

I am still in shock. I was watching my favorite morning program yesterday - Morning Joe on MSNBC. I heard them play Bruce Springstein and I became excited thinking to myself "Tim Russert is coming on!" I then remembered he passed away and I will never get a chance to hear his coverage again. To the Russert family, I can't begin to imagine your loss, but I just want to thank you for sharing this wonderful man with us for all these years. I will never hear Springstein again and not think of Tim Russert for the rest of my life. And though I am a Chicago Bears and Blackhawks fan, the Buffalo Bills and Sabres will have a special place in my heart now. What a guy! Thank you and God Bless you. Jim Reidy

Dear Mrs. Russert, Luke , Big Russ, I came to know you People by reading ``WISDOM OF OUR FATHERS`` in 2006 whilst attending my Daughter`s Graduation Ceremony at Morgan State University , Baltimore , MD. I always know a good Book by both its Title and its cover , and tim`s book was no exception; thus I bought two copies of the same book , one for myself and the other for a Lady-Family friend of mine , whom I hold in High Esteem. Upon reading ``Wisdom of Our Fathers``, I urged my four Daughters, whom I adore so very much , to buy themselves copies and to read this great Book , which I find to be very informative , full of Family values and virtures. What I found interesting about Tim in reading his book in 2006,is that he is Family oriented, as I am. I have called one of my Daughters , asking her to get me a copy each of the two other books of Tim , namely : BIG RUSS AND ME ; PHILADELPHIA AVENUE. Tim will be sorely missed , not only by BIG RUSS, MAUREEn AND LUKE but also by all those who have read his literary works , moreso by all those Viewers of MEET THE PRESS PROGRAMME. Deep Regrets, Ebrima Ousmane Ndure, Mbabane, Kingdom of Swaziland, Southern AfriCA.

I live in Mn and have never met Tim in person but loved to watch him always on TV. He got me really interested in politics. He made politics interesting for everyone. If I were home I always watched his Sunday show and anything else he was on. My heart goes out to his wife. 7 years ago my husband died the same way and he to was healty, he ate good and exercised. He walked the day he died. It to was a shock and never something you completely get over, but it does get easier, every day a little easier. I have Grandchildren that will never no there Grandfather as you will have and we just need to tell them stories about him. You will miss him forever but he would want you to go on. Take care and no that myself and half the world are grieving along with you. Jane Carlson

I want to send my deepest condolences to Tim Russert's family and to his friend's and colleagues. I can't imagine the loss you must all feel. I am only a viewer, but I can't imagine what life is going to be like without seeing him every Sunday and every day in fact, covering the election. I always turned to him, because I trusted his judgement, his ability to be impartial, and his knowledge of politics and goverment. I learned so much about him in all the tributes during the past few days. He truly was a wonderful man. I cry everytime I think of him not being in this world any longer, but it comforts me a little to know he's up in Heaven. I am going to miss him so very much. God bless Mr. Russert's wife, Maureen, his son, Luke, his father, Big Russ, his sisters, and to the NBC family. My heart goes out to you all. And Tim, I just know you're interviewing someone up there!

I've sent other well wishes, but I just want the nbc family to know-the hurt will pass and Tim belive me is in a better place. I'am sure that he is so touch by the out pouring of love he is getting. And you people are so inrich for knowing him personally. So always share your memories of him with the public, I personally don't get tired of hearing it.

They say there is nothing better once you have had the best, Well Tim Russert was truey the best. When it came to polictics he had it hands down on the rest of the meet the press was superb, loved him on Good Morining Joe watched for him every morning just to hear his comment on obama & mcclain & his laugh & always his smile. There was never a man that made more loving comments about his wife, son Luke & father big Russ. I read both his books which were wonderful and he stated on good morning Joe if he died that day he would die doing what he loved, life had been everything he could dream of to him. His family all of them wife, son, father & 3 sisters are all in our prayers. You will be so very much missed by our family. THE ADAMS FAMILY GREENFIELD, OHIO

Although I never personally knew Tim,I know he was a fine man.I was watching the news with my seven year old daughter and she asked me if we could write a note to Tims' family and tell them how sorry we are for their loss.Gods speed Tim.Rest in peace!

Luke, Big Russ and Me The Gift Bestowed with a Hug and Kiss June 22, 2008, 12th Sunday of Ordinary Time Jeremiah 20:10-13 Romans 5:12-15 Matthew 10:26-31 To the churched and unchurched gathered in a church not built by human hands Alleluia, alleluia. A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew Glory to you, Lord. Jesus said to the Twelve: “Fear no one. Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. What I say to you in the darkness, speak in the light. What you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. And do not be afraid of those who can kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father’s permission. Even the very hairs on your head have all been counted. So do not be afraid! You are worth more than a whole flock of sparrows. The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. ---------------- Introduction Do not be afraid The New Testament abounds with the injunction to not be afraid. When Joseph discovers that Mary is pregnant, an angel appears and says to him,”Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for it is by the Holy Spirit that she has conceived.” (Mt 1:20 When Zachariah is before the altar of incense in the temple, an angel appears and says, “Zachariah, do not be afraid! God has heard your prayer, and your wife Elizabeth will bear a son, and you will call him John.” (Lk 1:12-13) When Mary is troubled by the angel Gabriel’s salutation, he says, “Mary, do not be afraid! You have found favor with God. You will conceive a son and call him Jesus.” (Lk 1: 30-31) When shepherds are keeping watch over their flocks, and the night sky becomes ablaze with the glory of the Lord, an angel appears and says to them, “Do not be afraid! I bring you tidings of great joy. This day is born to you in the city of David a savior who is Christ the Lord.” (Lk2: 8-11) When a strong wind tosses the disciples’ boat, Jesus appears and says to them,”Do not be afraid! It is I.” (Mt 14:27) When the women entered the tomb of Jesus to anoint his body, an angel sitting at the right says to them, “Do not be afraid! You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth who was nailed to the cross. He is not here. He has been raised from the dead!” (Mt 28:5-6) And in the gospel today Jesus enjoins all of us who have doubts about our self-worth to be not afraid, for we are worth more than a whole flock of sparrows! (Mt. 10:31) Self-esteem God knows that we are worth more than a whole flock of sparrows; He showed it by redeeming us -- by buying us back -- with nothing less than the precious blood of His Son Jesus. (Eph 1:7) Good family and friends know that we are worth more than a whole flock of sparrows; they show it with many sincere words and gestures. Yes, even our dogs know that we are worth more than a whole flock of sparrows; they show it as only man’s best friend can show it. At the end of the day, however, what really matters and what is really critical is that we know that we are worth more than a whole flock of sparrows. Psychiatrists call it “self-esteem.” A gift from birth and a gift from friends Self-esteem, they tell us, is partly a gift bestowed by birth. Some are blessed with self-esteem because they are born with great natural endowments and into abundant means. (On the other hand, some are born into sizeable needs of one sort or other.) Self-esteem is also partly a gift bestowed by friends (especially family) who keep telling us with word and gesture that we are worth more than a whole flock of sparrows. The gift of self-esteem, the psychiatrists tell us, is bestowed already at a very early age. By the age of three or four the matter is quite basically signed, sealed and delivered. A critical gift Self-esteem is a critical gift. The lack of it drives kids to commit suicide or to avenge themselves with school massacres or to just simply fix matters with fast fixes. It is a sober thought to know that we have the power to bestow such a critical gift in others or withhold it. We can give our kids a nice home, a good education and all the toys and trinkets of technology but if we do not give them, first and foremost, the gift of self-esteem, we have not given them very much. Without self-esteem they have nothing, and with it they have everything. If they do not know they are worth more than a whole flock of sparrows, they will surely die one way or the other. If they do, indeed, know it, then by hook or by crook, they will surely manage to live and even thrive, no matter what. And if we do not have time to let them know they are worth more than a whole flock of sparrows, then, for God’s sake, we must make time! That will save us tons of time and grief later on. What’s more, it will reap an abundant harvest for us in due season. Russert’s gift to Big Russ Tim Russert, NBC News’ Washington bureau chief and moderator of Meet the Press died of a heart attack on Friday, June 13, 2008 at the age 58. Russert had a very close relationship with his father whom he affectionately called “Big Russ.” In May of 2004, he penned a book about his father and titled it Big Russ And Me. At Thanksgiving that year, his father, Big Russ hugged him and told him for the first time that he loved him! Big Russ felt his life had been affirmed and was now able to communicate because his son had said in his book, "I wish to hell he'd tell me sometimes what I knew he felt." Russert was telling his dad, Big Russ, that he was worth more than a whole flock of sparrows, and oh how grateful Big Russ felt on that Thanksgiving day! Self- esteem is a critical gift we give and receive. Luke’s gift to his dad and Big Russ Russert relates that on Christmas Eve of 2004 the family went to midnight Mass. When they came home, and his son Luke was getting ready for bed, his wife Maureen discovered that Luke had a tattoo on his side! She called down saying, “Tim, get up here! Your son has a tattoo!” Surprised, Tim ran up to talk turkey to Luke. He spoke to him about the physical consequences of tattoos. Then he told Luke to lift up his arm. Luke refused. He kept his arm locked. Again Russert told his son to lift up his arm. The arm finally unlocked, and there in a purple stencil print were the initials T.J.R. (Russert’s dad's name is Timothy Joseph Russert and his name is Timothy John Russert.) Unlocking his arms Luke made a wonderful confession; he said to Father, “Dad, after I read your book, I always wanted you and grandpa at my side!” Luke was telling his dad and grandpa that they were worth more than a whole flock of sparrows. Self- esteem is a critical gift we give and receive. Russert’s gift to Luke Russert penned a second book titled Wisdom of Our Fathers. Like his first book it was no. 1 New York Times best seller. At the end of the book Russert tells about the day he dropped Luke off at college (a day Russert dreaded). He had written a note to his son but at first hesitated to give it to Luke, as he was dropping him off. Then he changed his mind, turned to Luke, handed him the note and said, “Read this when I'm gone." Luke insisted on reading it now. And this is what he read: Dear Luke, off you go. New school, new city, new friends, new challenges. You are more than ready. Whether it was New York or Washington or the different schools you've been to, you've connected with people that made your mark. I've so enjoyed watching you and helping you grow. We've had an amazing 19 years together. I hope we have at least another 19. I will always be here for you. We are bonded by blood. Call any time, any day, with good news or bad. I am on your side. Keep an open mind to new ideas and people with different views. Study hard. Laugh often. Keep your honor. With admiration, respect, and deep love, dad, a.k.a. The Big Guy. How powerfully the “Big Guy” told the “Little Guy” that he was worth more than a whole flock of sparrows! Self- esteem is a critical gift we give and receive. Conclusion The gift bestowed with a hug and kiss We bestow the gift of self- esteem upon others and especially upon our kids not in the same way we bestow upon them the toys and trinkets of technology. This gift we hug and kiss into them. An old bumper-sticker used to ask us, “Have you kissed your kids today?” A poem, whose name and author is lost in the long corridor of my memory, paints a picture of a father walking with his son in-hand across the sprawling campus of a mental institution in Boston, Massachusetts. In it are incarcerated hundreds of sorry human beings. (Without batting an eyelash we used to call those institutions “crazy houses” in days past.) As father and son are walking along, the father is deep in thought. His son, he thinks, harbors a strange dogma in his little head; he believes every ache and pain, every scratch and wound can be healed with a kiss! What a strange thought the father thinks. Then he pauses and ponders. And here the poem rises up to its bottom-line. The father says to himself, "I wonder whether t ’was the lack of a kiss, that made the State of Massachusetts need a house like this?" Jesus says “While it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming when no one can work.” (Jn 9:4) The night has come, and Russert, hard worker that he was, can no longer work. Over and over again this past week, the news marveled at the thorough, fair and appealing job Russert did on Meet the Press every Sunday morning. Over and over again this past week the news marveled also at the wonderful job Russert did on his father Big Russ and son Luke. He hugged and kissed the gift of self-esteem into them, and because of him both know now that they are worth more than a whole flock of sparrows. That’s the gift and inheritance Russert left them, and nobody can ever take that away from them.

How I will miss Tim on Sunday mornings and every other time that I was lucky enough to see him during the election years....He was the best and was taken from his family and his televison family much to early...He was just wonderful and I will miss his smile and his abitlty to make you understand the art that he had to do his job..... My heart goes out to his family and I know that he will be watching down on all of us,but most of all his wife and Luke and Big Russ....I saw Luke on the today show and I know that his dad had to be so proud of what a fine young man he is.... Go get them Pal and have a beer and wings on all of us....YOU ARE THE BEST...and I will weep for you.....

Tim Russert_most of the nation never personally met him, yet felt somehow that we knew him. He was as has been stated; a great interviewer and host, devoted and loving father, husband,and son, and a man of faith in God. A genuine person who seemed to know himself without vanity. He was transparent enough for us to know how deeply he felt about his country, his family, and his faith. I too have wondered "Who can fill his shoes?" What has stuck with me is his sign about "No whining allowed.' If that was in every workplace and home, how authentically productive our lives would be. To act, not impulsively, but with informed reflection rather than blaming, complaining, and making excuses. I hope some sort of an award/tribute is made and named in his honor. For a journalist, or whoever, to receive a Tim Russert Award and all that his name and memory implies, would be such an affirmation of the person Tim was. All of us could reach for the torch Tim passes on. Reading others' written thoughts and listening to friends comments illustrate that the ability to affect the "everyday person's" (which most of us are) life is what we respond to and maybe what we should aspire to. Those in power and leadership positions should take notice of what and whom the American people have deemed TRULY GREAT.

Tim Russert was extraordinary in all facets of his life - both professional and personal. I do not believe that Sunday mornings will never be the same again . The day truly did not begin until I heard "If it's Sunday, it's 'Meet the Press." For 17 years Tim Russert was the epitome of what professonial journalism was about....seeking the answers to questions that impacted the lives of all Americans. His wit, charm, intelligence and love of politics and family made each interview a lesson in how to serve the public good. One can only hope that by the example he left, TV journalism will once again be uplifted from the abyss of crass senationalism to the realm of honest, fair and unbiased news reporting. May it comfort the Russert family to know that our prayers are with them and that life will never be the same for all of us who admired and respected this great man whose like we wlll never see again. I'm sure that right now, in heaven Tim is teaching the heavenly choir the Bills fight song. Roz Kravitz Newtown, PA

This is the Bonhomme and Cherubin family. We are still in complete disbelief at the tragic news. We have been watching Tim for the longest time and because of his kind and gentle ways, he made us feel as if we were his friends. He will never be forgotten, for his kind sole has touched too many lives. When we turned on the television Friday afternoon to see the latest update on politics, little did we know the tragic that awaited. We couldn't believe our eyes. Rapidly tears started pouring down from them; turning away every now and then to wake up from the nightmare. We want to extend our deep condolences to his family and friends. In the end, we must say, Tim is not gone. He will still live in all our hearts for eons to come. While we are mourning the loss of our friend, others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil. ~John Taylor

I really enjoyed listening to Tim Russert. He was the best and most fair and honest person in broadcasting that I have ever listened to. If I was driving to work, and it was nearly 7:00am, I only waited to hear what Tim had to say! He was one brilliant person, that will be sorely missed! I don't care to watch the presidential election, because Tim made it interesting. God Bless Maureen and Luke!

To the Russert family, My thoughts and prayers are with you during this tough time. I'm sure Tim was God's tool to give the men in this world a true role model to follow. What a great father, son, husband and friend he was. We will miss him, but no one more than you. Go get 'em Tim! Mary Pat Joseph Boise, ID

It felt like we lost a friend even though we only see you every sunday. It's always "Meet the Press" before going to church. Sunday will never be the same without your wit, challenging questions and engaging smiles. From you, we learned details of politics and politicians. You made us appreciate and always remember "what a country" the USA is. From Big Russ to you, we learned the true meaning of entitlement and privilege. Now the panel in heaven will be complete with you as the moderator. Go get 'em Tim! With our deepest sympathy and prayers for your wife, Luke and Big Russ.

My name is Hortense T. West, I am 86 years old and I live in Elberon, NJ. I received my Masters Degree in Communications in May, 2007. I just want to send my heartfelt sympathy to Mr. Russerts family and friends. I have a story to let you know, I go to 8am Mass every Sunday and I would rush back home to see Tim Russert every Sunday. I enjoyed him so much and will really miss his smiling face on Sunday mornings.

No farewell words were spoken, No time to say goodbye. You were gone before we knew it, And only God knows why. I extend my heartfelt sympathy to the Russert family. Be assured there's one more star in heaven now. Cindy Detroit, Michigan

Our special memories of Mr. Russert were the special way that he treated people of all races, ethnic, social and economic and cultural backgrounds. His coverage of the presidential primaries and debates were all done very tactfully and he always strived to be fair in his tratment of all of the candidates. We will miss his big, beautiful smile, his and his big heart that really seemed to pull others close to him. To his family, the MSNBC staff and friends, we say to you that he is now back with God his maker and creator and that surely he will be watchiing out for each of you from Heaven. We feel certain that the angels came down and welcomed him into God's Kingdom. WE all loved him but God loved him best and he has done a good work on earth and now he is going to do a greater work up in the Heavens. St. Michael the ArchAngel and all who have gone on before him will celebrate his homecoming. We hope that you will take comfort in knowing that for him it is WEll Tim III., you did an excellent job talking and sharing your memories of your dad on yesterday, please keep up the good work and we know your dad will be proud of you. Please stay close to your mother and grandfather and keep the faith and stay close to God. Peace and Everything Good Al & Pam Davis State of MA

As a member of the baby boomer generation, I was so proud of Tim Russert and what he accomplished in his short 58 years. The baby-boomers were thought to be arrogant and "just plain lazy", but people like Tim Russert proved him wrong. I watched when he got to shake the hand of President Kennedy and what a thrill he got from that - I personally think that is when the joy and passion for politics hit his brain and heart. What I really loved about Tim was the absolute glow he exuded from loving his job so much. Most people never really love their job but he did. I will miss that especially as the 2008 election moves forward. Tim, I will be thinking of you on that night.

My prayers to the Russert family. Your loss is ours as well. An amazing man, an amazing life and much to learn from his exemplary life. Rest in Peace, Tim!

Tim Russert was one of the best. At the time of hearing about his death, only one thing was in my mind...WHY TIM RUSSERT? WHY NOW? why not wait until the end of the electioneering season? God knows. Tim, only 3 words for you...REST REST REST in peace.

To the Russert family, Words cannot express how saddened my heart was to hear of Tim's passing. It always astounds me when people with so much good inside them are taken from us so early in their lives. I can honestly not remember a time in my life when I've openly wept for someone I didn't know until this past Friday. I know that Tim would want his family and friends to move on and I'm sure in time that they will. That said, he should be remembered for the wonderful human being and talented journalist that he was, and we in turn should strive to be better people because of his example. Even still, these next six months are going to be so difficult to get through without Tim's presence, guidence, and input on the political stage. I've never seen someone with the kind of passion for politics that he had. Tim's passion made each election season fun and interesting to watch and things just won't be the same without him. We as a nation, were reluctant witnesses to the end of a remarkable era in American journalism and politics this past week. Tim, we will miss you. Have a beer and a wing on us. Lord knows you've earned it! Randy Barnes Nashville, TN

I have never known or perhaps even met someone with whom I was more affected by their death than Tim. Her personified what Amernican journalism SHOULD be. I sadly believe the political discourse will not be the same for some time without Tim's insightful analysys, terrific commentary and holding our public officials and political candidtates accountable to the often found gaps between pander and truth. Personally, he is a true inspiration - as a friend, father, husband and even boss. He seemed to have a passion for life, people and all that really matters in this world and an uncommon work ethic and sensibility to get to the bottom of issues and crawl under the skin of topics that most journalists only view superficially, at best.

The world loved Tim and the 2009 Election with out him will not be the same. My Prayers to his family that he loved so much. He had a mission and it did it well with much success. Patricia from Florida

God Bless your family our prayers are with them Tim, you were was an inspiration and shining light to all those seeking the truth Linda Sydney, Australia

My wife, a US citizen, and I have been deeply of Tim Russert's 'life is all of a piece' philosophical, spiritual and political worldview. This manifests a modern-media Renaissance man whose thoughtful views were expressed well in his work, whether it be a 90-second summary of daily events on NBC Nightly news, on Meet the Press mini-seminars, on Morning Joe as he gathered thoughts together for us early-morning types. As a clergyperson within the Christian tradition, let me quote a wise person from a previous century: 'there is no holiness without social holiness'. Tim's kind of holiness has given us a supreme example of how to elevate public discourse into the sphere of civility, compassion and truth-telling , all rolled into one. We will pray, on behalf of our infant grandchildren, that many others in the field of political conversations will go and do likewise. I miss him already as an older, wiser brother whose calling was into the sphere of making our lives , better, more whole, more.....well.... holy ...... Chris.

I know this has been said before but I did not know how much I would miss you I didn't have you anymore. You once said in an interview that Meet the Press was a National Treasure and to that I say, so are you Mr. Russert. You kept the truth coming to those of us that really wanted to hear it and never let the spin control the conversation. Your grace and civility are two qualities I only hope to attain. I saw your son and he is a fine young man. I was impressed by his grasp of your intent and only hope we get to see him sitting in your chair because honestly, we need him. We do not have Walter Cronkite, Dan Rather and now, Tim Russert to trust anymore. My condolences to your family, Kaitlyn

I did not realize what Tim Russert meant to me until I heard of his sudden death. I cried instantly. Yet, I had never met or even talked with him. I must attribute to his loving Christian spirit...you could sense his unconditional love for all people...like Jesus. I always thought he reminded me of a teddy bear....he seemed so loving...obviously he was. My prayers are with his wife, son, Luke, and Big Russ. What I've learned from him is to never feel entitiled in this world...but be a servant. He certainly was a servant for all the American people. I personally will miss him on television. ...especially his smile.

I was saddened to hear of the sudden and untimely passing of Tim Russert. My condolences to his family, friends, and to the American public. Mr. Russert was without a doubt a well respected jounalist, not only in the U.S., but also the rest of the world (I'm in Canada). He sought only to find the truth. Nothing more, nothing less. He is definately a great icon for the press and journalists to model after. His two books "Wisdom of Our Fathers: Lessons and Letters from Daughters and Sons" and "Big Russ and Me: Father and Son--Lessons of Life" are an essential part of my library. I still get a lump in my throat and shed a tear everytime I pick them up to read.

Such a kind,nice,gentle man........Something you rarely see today. You will be missed. Halifax,Nova Scotia

Tim you were my 'most unforgettable character' ... and I truly admired and respected you as a person and as a professional news analyst. Thank you for sharing your passion with us and thank you for the legacy that will go on for years. May GOD bless you and your family.

I was very sad to hear of Tim passing away so sunddenly. My heart goes out to his family. I am also dealing with the loss of my good friends 2 1/2 year old twin son who passed away suddenly in his sleep. The loss of someone you love is very hard, even harder when it is sudden. I wish I could have meet Tim. I had a chance when he stayed where I was working. I knew he was staying because I made his room reservation. I hope that he enjoyed his stay since he was a speaker at a convention. Your family is in my prayers. Just take things day by day.

I feel so bad for his family, especially Big Russ. I'm sure he never expected to bury his son! Although I was disappointed lately with Tim's unfair, somewhat sexist treatment of Hillary Clinton's run for the nomination e.g. "How could the Superdelegates choose HRC? What would the African American population think of that?" NEVER mentioning how her constituency (feminists, of which I am one) would feel in reverse, I loved Tim nonetheless. In fact, I can't stop weeping, and I only knew him from TV! I can imagine how his wife, his son, his sisters, his dad and his colleagues will miss this loving man! As a woman also born in 1950, his death has affected me in that personal way as well.

Rest in Peace, Mr. Russert.

I with the American Legion Auxiliary, and I did not know Tim personally, I did have the chance to see him in person and to shake his hand at an event that was held in Washington DC a few years back when the American Legion honored Tim and Tim's dad. Tim showed so much respect for his dad during that meeting and it showed how much he thought of his country and his fellow man. Our Prayers and thoughts are with the family. Janice Crosby-American Legion Auxiliary-Mississippi

((( Tim ))) such a wonderful man, always enjoyed watching him, his energy was so filled with love and light, he has certainly made his mark in this world and everyone who knew him, adored him. Its not so important the date of your birth or the date of your passing, its the DASH inbetween. What did you do with your life ..how did you fill that .."dash" ..I know that Tim is very much alive in spirit, listening to all being said about how and how he spend HIS dash, and for sure he is smiling and very proud of all that he accomplished while here on earth, his mission was succesful, he was here for others, not so much for himself and he touched so many people teaching, showing them the meaning of Unconditional Love and Kindness. Such a blessing for everyone who has been touched by the lessons of this very special earth angel. I do know one thing for sure, Heaven ..Just Got A Little Bit Nicer ((((( Tim and family ..God Bless You All )))) Donna from Boston

My favorite memory of Tim is when he appeared on the Today show with wet hair. I think the power went out in his hotel room but it didn't stop him from showing up on live TV with wet hair. It was that day that I knew he was a very dedicated guy and loved what he did for a living. When he spoke about the book he wrote for his Dad, I was touched that a father and son could have such a close bond. Now to see Luke give his Dad praise just shows that all of their feelings for each other is real. I wish my huband had loved our children as much as Tim loved his son Luke. Rest in Peace Tim you are missed my millions! Mary Ellen Havanec, South Windsor, CT

I was so saddened to hear about Tim's sudden and unexpected death. I believe he asked those hard questions and kept pushing for the answer and not just jumbled polital language, just for us, the public. He sure will be missed in my house. GodBless you Tim and Your entire family... REST IN PEACE Scotty Garrett, 33 Cookeville, TN

Tim Russert was the cornerstone of America! Sunday mornings will never be the same... My sympathies to his wife, son and Dad - no father should lose a son like this! Big Russ, your som loved you with every depth of his being and that shone through on many occasions we would see the 2 of you on television and came through even greater in his books. Be proud today Big Russ, you raised and All American boy in every sense of the word... When Tomorrow Starts without Me When tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not there to see; If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today, while thinking of the many things we didn't get to say. I know how much you love me, as much as I love you, and each time you think of me I know you'll miss me too; But when tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand, and said my place was ready in heaven far above, and that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love. But as I turned to walk away, a tear fell from my eye, for all life, I'd always thought I didn't want to die. I had so much to live for and so much yet to do, it seemed almost impossible that I was leaving you. I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad, I thought of all the love we shared and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday, I thought, just for awhile, I'd say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile. But then I fully realized that this could never be, for emptiness and memories would take the place of me. And when I thought of wordly things that I'd miss come tomorrow, I thought of you, and when I did, my heart was filled with sorrow. But when I walked through heaven's gates, I felt so much at home. When God looked down and smiled at me, from His great golden throne, He said, "This is eternity and all I've promised you." Today for life on earth is past but here it starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last, and since each day's the same day, there's no longing for the past. But you have been so faithful, so trusting, and so true. Though there were times you did some things you knew you shouldn't do. But you have been forgiven and now at last you're free. So won't you take my hand and share my life with me? So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart, for everytime you think of me, I'm right here in your heart. --Author Unknown Bethany Martin Lexington, SC

A man of great patience, integrity and honesty. We will miss his straight forward reporting. A truly great reporter has left our muddled world. May he rest in peace. M.L. Fenick Trumbull, CT

As a viewer I recognized a man who asked questions solely to find truth, and behind this motive was love for his country, his friends, his family, and enthusiasm for the possibilities of a better world. This in memory of Tim Russert, We all are going to miss this man, because as time went on he not only got my attention but many others of us that didn’t believe that there wasn’t anyone left out there to truly show an interest in just what was going on within are government and the breakdown of the system that truly is being taken apart from within. With all the special interest with all of the lobbyist and speculators taking control with no concern of turning are country in a third world country. Mr. Russert understood that it was going to take an interest and speak out plus vote, which after coming home from Vietnam in the late 60’s I found it hard to believe in the system that Tim brought be back in believing that (WE THE PEOPLE) Truly meant something. For that reason I send my deepest condolence to the Russert family for there lose and just how much we all have truly lose. Just from someone that hope that all his good work and honesty is not lots, just me Lee.

There is no one who can fill Tim Russert's shoes. He was a very, very fine example of what a ''man'' should be. I pray other's would follow his example, surely his son, Luke will. My heart goes out to his wife and son, as they are the ones who have the greatest loss and have lost a treasure. Tim, God bless, and may you rest in peace.

As a viewer I recognized a man who asked questions solely to find truth, and behind this motive was love for his country, his friends, his family, and enthusiasm for the possibilities of a better world. I cry because I miss him, the hope his honest, caring face gave me. I send my sympathies to his family and his friends--you gave him the most joy of all.

My husband and I have been waking up with Meet the Press since high school. He has taught us about politics from such a clear lens. Truth, integrity, and passion ought to drive politics, and more importantly, the discourse surrounding public life. Tim Russert has created a legacy. He is the watermark against which future generations will measure themselves. His importance is being noted en masse now, but I have a feeling that many of us noted his singular importance during his life as well.

I have never been overly interested in politics, but whenever I had the TV on and it was a channel that TIm happened to be on, I would automatically look up when I heard his voice. I was interested in him not so much as a political analyst, which I know he was an excellent one, but as a person. He was witty, kind, considerate, mannerly, intelligent, straightforward, honest, full of integrity, and devoted to his family, friends, colleagues, career, community, and the world in general. He was a great and rare individual who will be missed everyday from this day forward. Sincerely - MIchelle/Gillespie, Illinois

I am deeply touched by the grace and love that Tim Russert lived out for his fellow man. This is the kingdom of God here on earth. Thank you Tim for being an example of Christ that was alive and world changing in a time such as this. May the LORD keep the Russert family close in His arms as you go through this time of loss and mourning. Praise God for Tim and His life shared with us.

Other than my husband and son, Tim Russert was the man I most admired. I believed every word that he told me, I just knew that he was a great man of integrity and every good word that you can say about him. Tom and Brian, don't ever let me down as you are next on my list. Gena Schlander - St. Petersburg, Florida