Radio icon Paul Harvey died today. He was 90 years old, and worked all the way to his death — as he obviously wanted.

Everyone knew Harvey would never retire, but he had obviously cut back on active work years ago. Every time I'd happen to be on a station that was playing one of his "Rest of the Story" segments, or "Paul Harvey News and Comment," I was disappointed to hear a substitute host — his son, Paul Harvey Jr., or even Fred Thompson.

But I heard him give what is now one of his last broadcasts a week or so ago. I must say, as someone who enjoyed listening to Harvey, it was sad to hear his voice — once so confident and bright; now so sickly and weak. I thought to myself, he doesn't have long. Sadly, I was right.

When I was in junior high, I learned I could make people laugh with my Paul Harvey impersonation. Of course, that's an easy laugh. Just put on the Paul Harvey voice — exaggerated enunciation, HOLD OUT THOSE VOWELS!, and long pauses where they don't logically belong. And of course saying: "Paul Harvey ................................(make a face).............(make another face)........(look at your watch)...................(pick up something to read)............(take a sip of water)..............(then, finally say).........................Good Day!

It's funny, especially to a kid. But when Paul Harvey spoke on the radio, he had a knack for keeping your attention — which is what the radio game is all about. I'll miss Harvey's unique broadcast styling, his Midwestern accent, and his "Rest of the Story" stories — a genius piece of information and entertainment. He earned that Presidential Medal of Freedom Bush put around his neck above. Paul Harvey is an irreplaceable piece of Americana. A patriot. An icon.

Good Day, Mr. Harvey. Rest in well-earned peace.

(Erick Erickson has a nice tribute over at RedState)