Tim Russert's Father "Big Russ" Dies At 85

Timothy Joseph Russert, the father of the late Tim Russert affectionately known as "Big Russ," has died at the age of 85, his family announced Thursday evening.

Russert Sr. was the subject of his son's 2004 book, "Big Russ & Me: Father and Son--Lessons of Life."

The Russert family released the following statement about Big Russ' death:

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Timothy Joseph Russert. While he was affectionately known to the world as "Big Russ," he carried no more important nor meaningful titles than those of father, grandfather, great-grandfather, patriot and friend. He passed peacefully with his family at his side from natural causes at the age of 85.

We warmly thank all those who were inspired by his life and his lessons.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Alzheimer's Association so that the world may move closer to finding a cure for this sad affliction.

We ask for privacy as funeral arrangements are pending.

Shortly before Tim Russert died in June 2008, Terry McAuliffe made an awkward reference to Big Russ' death on "Meet the Press," telling Russert that his father was "watching from heaven."

"Big Russ is in the Barcalounger still watching this," he replied. "God bless him."

Watch this video feature on Tim Russert & Big Russ from "NBC Nightly News" in 2007:

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Comments

[Skyhawk]

Condolences to the family.

[Grannysue]

Prayers to the family now the two BIG RUSS'S are together again!

[toggan]

Condolences to the family. We were introduced to Big Russ by Tim. May Luke find comfort in knowing that many hold warm memories of stories told of Big Russ by Tim. May strength and comfort embrace you.

[longislandlol]

Big Russ lived life his way-- that is the way of the world- be true to yourself...

[middleoftheroad]

RIP BIG RUSS! Prayers to his family, tough year. Keep your chin up Luke!

[MissKaren]

He raised a great kid.

[sloreader]

My thoughts are with Luke and his family. Having lost my Dad and Grandfather in less than a few months time many years ago I can truly sympathize with what they are going through.

[Omentum]

WE LOVE YOU BIG RUSS!!!!!

Say Hi To Tim for us.

[Dark Sphere]

RIP Big Russ, you were a great man and a great example!

[lmab]

What is with all this chatter about Tim and Big Russ being together now? Does that really give anyone comfort? I always thought it was the least creative thing someone says at a eulogy.

[skybar]

People always say that, though. It does give them comfort, even if it's not true.

[lmab]

Ok...but why not say something that will give them even more comfort...­.like..."h­e just moved to Europe"?

[cheeriogirl]

Please be considerate of others feelings, and hold your comments on their beliefs.

[rakrobn]

God bless both Tim Russert and his father. It must have been so painful to see his son die before him - it's the worst feeling as a parent.

[KayCo]

I still miss Tim Russert. I am glad now that father and son are reunited. My condolences to Luke and the rest of the family.

Oh yes and GO BILLS!!

[Candace8383]

i am so sorry for the family this has been a really tough time for them. my deepest condolences

[OhComeOnNow]

Condolences to the entire Russert family.

[Reality30303]

Hang in there Luke - you carry the strengths of your dad and granddad. My prayers are with you.