I got the news about Tim Russert dying of a heart attack while at work at NBC in Washington later than most. It wasn’t until I picked up the newspaper on my porch Saturday morning that I found out that this favorite of journalists had passed away at 58.

Ever since I’ve been captured by the coverage and moved by the memories and sheer sense of loss that the media community and the NBC family is expressing. I must say that I too have been mourning his loss.

It’s hard to explain my feelings toward a fellow I didn’t know, or didn’t know me. Perhaps it is the sheer proximity of those of us who live in Erie, a mere 90 miles from Tim’s beloved South Buffalo (there’s a Tim Russert park in West Seneca, NY, where they have been holding a nightly vigil since Friday). Or perhaps it is his faith in God as a strong Catholic; being able to hold onto his faith in the context of a very cynical capitol city environment.

What definitely comes in play is Tim’s profound love and respect for his dad, Big Russ, which he articulated in a best selling book four years ago. His description of Big Russ resonates deeply with me, with Tim’s father from the same generation as my father. When Tim says that “I stand on my dad’s shoulders,” I totally get that. It is only through the grace of God, and the sheer sacrifice and foundation I received from my parents that I am who I am today.

Tim’s sudden death has also brought to the surface some of the fears I have stuffed away about my health, my weight, and the fleeting nature of life. Still have to sort through all that.

It is really ironic that Tim’s passing comes just a week or so after the final primaries of this historical election year. For millions of Americans, he was the speaker whose words we hung on in understanding election results. My imagination still can’t conjure what the remainder of this election will look like without the even-keeled, enthusiastic analysis by Tim Russert. He will be sorely missed by both his colleagues and viewers, including this news junkie from Erie, PA.