But nowhere was Russert’s passing felt harder or deeper than in Buffalo, where he was born May 7, 1950.
When Russert’s father, Timothy J. Russert Sr., who was immortalized in “Big Russ/Father and Son: Lesson of Life,” learned his famous broadcasting son had died, the 83-year-old retired truck driver broke down in tears. His son’s death came at an especially heartbreaking time ”” two days before Father’s Day.
He was in the Orchard Park assisted living facility, where his son had helped him to move just a week ago.
“Big Russ knows his son died. He’s crying right now,” said Joseph Passafiume, the son of Jean Passafiume, Big Russ’ companion for three decades.
Breaking the news to Big Russ were his daughter Kathryn, the last of Tim Russert’s siblings living in Western New York, and Michael Shea, a family friend.
“Kathy and Mike are with Big Russ,” Joseph Passafiume said. “Kathy’s also taking it bad. . . . My mom’s completely heartbroken.”
Mayor Byron W. Brown ordered flags on city property lowered to half-staff.
Many from far outside of Buffalo also considered him to be their hometown representative. We all share in the loss.
I too was shocked and saddened by Russert’s sudden death. However I am concerned about the level of attention that this is receiving in the press & media. The excerpt above IMO crosses the lines of good taste. His family, by all accounts a very close one, is obviously going to be devastated by this. Thats all that needed to be reported. These kinds of details are an almost morbid intrusion on the personal grief of the family.
Additionally, I think it’s worth remembering that Tim was a reporter, not a head of state. The level of attention being given his death is a little over the top. It would have been unimaginable for NBC not to give this priority as a news item. Russert was not only their colleague and personal friend but also one of the best in his field. But there is other news out there. And some of it is actually important. Making his repose the lead story and dedicating a special segment to remembering his career would be perfectly appropriate. More than that is questionable.
When newsmen become THE NEWS that should raise red flags and concern. I very respectfully think its time to tone it down a bit.
May his memory be eternal.
ICXC
John
Ad, intellectually I understand your reasoning, and would normally agree. But Russert was a giant in his industry, and it’s a good thing that he’s being positively touted to his peers and the rest of the world. The difference between him and so many others is that he was honest; the media need to keep him out front as a role model. And hey, you won’t hear Buffalo and/or the Bills celebrating Wolfe Blitzer when he goes. What a difference between the two. I doubt many Buffalonians are even aware that Blitzer, too, is a native son.
Many blessings on this Father’s Day,
T