Accolades hail area champion
Family and friends of Tim Russert — one of Buffalo’s favorite sons — were shocked Friday at the news of his death.
It was particularly tough on his father, Timothy J. Sr., known affectionately at “Big Russ,” and Jean Passafiume, his father’s companion of approximately three decades.
“The first thing that’s really true and unconditional and absolute about Tim was his total dedication to his family,” recalled Joseph Passafiume, Jean’s son. “He was never too busy at all for them.”
Recollections of Russert poured in Friday — from his native South Buffalo to City Hall, from Albany to Washington.
•••
“Tim embodied the qualities of the son, brother, husband, father and uncle that made him the extraordinary human being and Catholic that he was. A faithful, loyal, committed and generous man, Mr. Russert was unquestionably our most accomplished and conspicuous alumnus in 138 years.”
— The Rev. James P. Higgins, president of Canisius High School
“He was an accomplished journalist who never forgot where he came from. Every chance he got, he spoke of his passion for his hometown and his enthusiasm for the Buffalo Bills.”
— Mayor Byron W. Brown
“Tim Russert’s passion for politics and government was only transcended by his passion for Buffalo. He was a kid from the neighborhood who never forgot his roots and continually made us proud. His unique commentary and style was unmatched and is irreplaceable.”
— Rep. Brian Higgins, D-Buffalo
“Tim was one of our nation’s greatest journalists. His tremendous contributions to American journalism have made Buffalo very proud.”
— Rep. Louise M. Slaughter, D-Fairport
“Tim Russert personified the best of Buffalo to the nation and the world. If some Buffalo cause needed him, Tim would be there. Both Mario Cuomo and Pat Moynihan recognized his fine mind. Tim was both a quick and thorough journalist who excelled at every leadership post at NBC. He was a good friend and will be missed.”
— Stanford Lipsey, publisher of The Buffalo News
“Tim Russert was Buffalo. He wore it on his sleeve. He wore it on his forehead. He never forgot where he came from.”
— Former Mayor Anthony
M. Masiello
“Today I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Tim Russert, a beloved native son of Buffalo, N. Y. Tim never forgot his roots in Western New York, and his hometown has always celebrated his great accomplishments.
— Gov. David A. Paterson
“Buffalo has lost a favorite son, and our nation has lost a giant of political journalism. Tim was my favorite sparring partner — he was always tough, always fair, and always cared about the issues.”
–Rep. Thomas M. Reynolds, R-Clarence
“America has lost a vital source of information, analysis and wisdom when we need it most.”
— Former Gov. Mario M. Cuomo, who knew Russert for 25 years
And from his beloved Buffalo Bills:
“The Buffalo Bills organization is devastated in hearing the news of the passing of Tim Russert.
“Tim, as everyone knows, was a tremendous Bills fan. He was always so proud to let people know just how much he loved our team and was such a great ambassador for Buffalo.
“Our sincere sympathies go out to his family and our team carries a heavy heart tonight as we mourn the loss of this great man, Buffalo’s native son and a Bills fan forever.”
