Tim Russert Tribute on 'Meet the Press'

Colleagues of Tim Russert dedicated Sunday's edition of NBC's "Meet the Press" to the show's former host, who collapsed at work Friday and died of a heart attack at age 58. Russert's chair was left empty as former NBC news anchor Tom Brokaw and others reflected on the late newsman's life and career.

"His voice has been stilled," Brokaw said of the sudden death of Russert, who hosted "Meet the Press" for more than 16 years. He added that the goal of the tribute show was "remembering and honoring our colleague and our friend."

Condolences also poured in from prominent politicians. Speaking in Paris, France, President George W. Bush said of the departed NBC News, Washington bureau chief: "I've had the privilege of being interviewed by Tim Russert. I found him to be a hardworking, thorough, decent man. And Tim Russert loved his country, he loved his family, and he loved his job a lot."

"It's a great tragedy," Vice President Dick Cheney added to NBC's Matt Lauer. "I was stunned yesterday to learn of Tim's passing. I remember many occasions when we did the show when he would ask me about my health. But he never commented on his own; I was unaware that he had coronary artery disease. We could have compared notes. But it's a tremendous loss."

Finally, former first lady Nancy Reagan said in a statement: "Tim was a force of nature on the airwaves, and it’s hard to believe that great voice has been silenced. His integrity, intelligence, and fairness will be greatly missed, and Sunday mornings will never be the same. My deepest sympathies go out to his wife, his son, and his father."

Published 6/15/08 by