Politics | Tim Russert Meet the Press Remembers Russert Tom Brokaw leads celebration of newsman's career By Katherine Thompson Posted Jun 15, 2008 11:42 AM CDT Copied An unidentified woman pauses after placing a bouquet of flowers at the entrance to NBC Studios in Washington, Friday, June 13, 2008, after it was announced that Tim Russert collapsed and died. (AP Photo/Haraz N. Ghanbari) With the moderator's chair empty, Tom Brokaw began this morning's edition of "Meet the Press" by urging the show's guests not to cry, Politico reports. Friends and admirers of longtime host Tim Russert gathered to recall the highlights of his career and what made the ultimate political junkie. Russert “genuinely liked politicians—he respected politicians," said Mary Matalin, but as James Carville pointed out, "he really was offended by people who didn’t prepare." Guests described Russert as a man who truly wanted success for his friends and co-workers, and would always help them achieve it. A public memorial is planned for Wednesday, in Washington. Read These Next It's one of the best lottery pool stories you'll ever read. A name is released in the shooting at a Dallas ICE facility. Ever wonder who wins those insane jackpots? This guy. Trash bags, zip ties, bleach caught delivery driver's attention. Report an error