CNN is reporting that Bob Novak, a tireless Washington journalistic establishment, has died.

He retired a little over a year ago when he was diagnosed with brain cancer.

For years, he was a co-panelist on Capitol Gang with Kate O’Beirne, who stood by him as his godmother when he converted to Catholicism in 1998.

I did not know Bob well (he was always gracious when I encountered him in and around Washington and I always read him though!), but some close friends of mine did. And they loved him. Working for Bob Novak always seemed to inspire great loyalty to the man and a great love of politics and America.

UPDATE: Sun-Times: Innovator’s life marked by passion

UPDATE: Mitch McConnell:

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell made the following statement Tuesday regarding the passing of Robert Novak:
“For more than half a century, Robert Novak explained the politics and the personalities of Washington to readers across the country through a mix of tireless shoe leather reporting and the kind of keen insight that can only be gained through years and years of dedication to a craft. He was a Washington institution who could turn an idea into the most discussed story around kitchen tables, Congressional offices, the White House, and everywhere in between. Elaine and I extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Novak family.”