My dad asked me to put a few words down in this space regarding the passing of Tim Russert this past Friday and to share a small but illustrative anecdote. Tim was the rare breed that was both towering figure and regular guy. His was an unflinching style devoid of the bombast or grandstanding so often associated with the intersection of modern politics and television. In rare fashion, Russert was able to make the most powerful people in America, if not the world, nervous at the prospect of having to spend an hour at his table. They knew, of course, that a poor showing on Meet the Press could be disastrous to a career or a campaign.

But more than the professional plaudits he so richly deserves, Tim Russert was one of the few, perhaps the only, individual inside the Beltway genuinely liked and most importantly, respected by everyone. In a town that thrives on the concept that politics is a zero-sum game, Russert displayed unwavering devotion to the ideal that politics, and politicians, matter; that holding them to account was not only his duty, but an absolute necessity for a nation founded on the principles that elected leaders are answerable to the people and a free and open press.

His reach was far beyond the Beltway, though. Convincing millions of Americans from Buffalo to Beverly Hills to invite him into their homes on Sunday mornings was no mean feat. His ability to make powerful people accessible to everyday citizens was one seen all too rarely and appreciated all too little.

My father asked me to relate the following story. In 1998, Rich served as an advisor to then-Speaker Newt Gingrich. The night of the 4th of July, my parents were sitting on the Speaker's Balcony at the Capitol for the annual concert and fireworks show. This spot is arguably the best seat in the country to watch the celebration. Tim and Rich spoke by phone that night regarding an upcoming interview. They had a laugh that only in America could the son of a garbage man from Buffalo and an upholsterer from Brooklyn could find themselves in such places.

As my dad often said the essential difference between Rich Galen and Tim Russert was that my dad got one MULLINGS column out of that conversation; Tim got two books.

And now a few parting thoughts:

We appreciated Tim all the more and he and his father shared a relationship similar to the one I have with my dad.

To Tim's Family: We know that our words can in no way assuage your grief. But please be heartened to know that millions of people around America hold you in their prayers. We can only say thank you for sharing Tim with us and know that passion he showed for all things most assuredly started with you.

To Tim's Successor: Whoever you may be, imitation will appear to the easiest path to success. But as with anyone replacing a legend, your performance will be judged, early, often and sometimes unfairly. Hang in there; it's what Tim would have wanted. If you stand by the ideals that he held true, your own style will find its way. Holding those in power accountable for both actions and words is your main charge.

To Journalism Students: Tim Russert was his generation's Woodward & Bernstein. Not because he broke the biggest story but because his meticulous work ethic and absolute belief that the Fourth Estate can be an agent for good is a standard few will attain but all should strive for.

Thank you, Tim, for all you gave us. We owe you a debt we're unable to repay.

Go Bills!