Maureen Orth, writer for Vanity Fair magazine and widow of NBC newsman Tim Russert, told People magazine that her husband was so much fun to live with and was always thoughtful. One example was his practice of bringing her home the ‘pillow chocolates’ that he often received in hotels while traveling.

Orth, who lost her husband one week ago, indicated that Tim had been under a tremendous amount of pressure recently in his work and personal life. His beloved father, Big Russ, is in declining health and the newsman had to make the decision to move him to an assisted living facility in Buffalo, NY. Orth said that was a huge psychological strain on Tim.

Tim joined his wife and son in Europe just prior to his death to celebrate Luke’s graduation from Boston College. Orth said the family vacation was made difficult because the weather in Rome was extremely hot and humid. She said that she was exhausted but noted that Russert bounded through the experience with enthusiastic energy. She remarked to him that she didn’t know how he could do that.

Maureen said that the thing that has surprised her most about the past week is the unbelievable outpouring of love and support that she and her son has received from people around the world. She said, “I had no idea Tim meant so much to people he didn’t even know.”

Check out a photo of the Russert men and one of Luke claiming his father’s Meet the Press chair last Sunday.

Related Articles:

• Michelle Obama on The View (Video)
• Obama Funky Wrist Watch Photos: Time For a Change Indeed
• Luke Russert Remembers Dad on NBC Today Show (Video)
• Tim Russert, 58, Dead of Heart Attack, Bureau Chief and Meet the Press Host
• John McCain Withdrawing Troops "Not Too Important" Comment on Today Show (Video)
• Obama Rides His Bike in Chicago - His Coolness Factor Plummets
• Reggie Love is Barack Obama's Cool Body Man (Photos)
• Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People List, How the Celebrities Fared

Filed under: Across the Nation