Tim Russert, 1950-2008
I just heard the news that reporter Tim Russert has died.
WASHINGTON - Tim Russert, NBC News' Washington bureau chief and the moderator of "Meet the Press," died Friday after being stricken at the bureau, NBC News said Friday. He was 58.
Russert was recording voiceovers for Sunday's "Meet the Press" broadcast when he collapsed. He was rushed to Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, where resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful, said Russert's physician, Michael Newman.
Newman said the cause of death was not immediately known.
This is such an unexpected loss.
Russert was an incredible reporter.
He knew his stuff, you could tell he loved his job, he loved reporting the news and loved politics the most.
I'll never forget his incredible sense of humor on the eve of the 2000 elections, "Florida, Florida, Florida", and his little white board where he kept adding up all the votes and delegate votes, and just so alive and energized by the whole process.
He has an extensive and impressive background from being a senate staffer before going to into journalism, he received an Emmy for his coverage of of President Reagan's funeral, 48 honorary doctorates, countless awards for excellence in his career, member of the broadcasting hall of fame, and on the board of the baseball hall of fame.
He was a trustee of the Freedom Forum's Newseum and a member of the board of directors of the Greater Washington Boys and Girls Club and America/s Promise - Alliance for Youth.
He was also named father of the year by several different organizations over the years.
This is just a shock and tragic loss of a man I admired.
My heart and thoughts are with his wife Maureen and his son Luke.
Comments
I know I could not believe it when my husband told me. It's a great loss. I enjoyed his analysis and commentary.
Thanks for your great keychain post. Good luck!
Posted by: windyridge | June 13, 2008 8:05 PM
I heard it on the radio this afternoon today. What a shocker...he was only 58 years old. We've watched him every Sunday on "Meet The Press" for ages...his coverage of the current Presidential race was top-notch. he always asked all of the candidates excellent questions.
Mike and I are members of the Baseball Hall of Fame, we knew that Russert was on the board, and he will be missed by the baseball community, as well.
Very sad.
Posted by: Christine | June 13, 2008 9:39 PM