A business journalist people admired and respected

Angie Muhs, the executive editor of the State Journal-Register in Springfield, Illinois, writes about Tim Landis, the paper’s business editor who died earlier this month.

Much writes, “Tim was a good reporter because he excelled at making those community-based connections, and he excelled at making connections because of his character.

“Tim never was feigning interest or faking sincerity when he interviewed people. He was boundlessly curious and still, even after decades in the business, plainly tickled to have a job where he got paid to meet interesting people and ask them questions. He loved learning about various topics and often would come back from assignments eager to share interesting little facts and tidbits.

“There’s a stereotype that older journalists are resistant to change and less-than-willing to embrace new digital technology. Tim shattered that stereotype. He wanted to try new things and learn new skills; he often forwarded me articles about the latest industry trends. I’m really sorry the SJ-R audience won’t get to hear the podcast that I wanted him to start on local business trends and issues.”

Read more here.