"Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. "He just did the job. He was 70. It was my privilege to know Doug for 32 years, going back to when he owned Doug Buffone's Bear Report. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. Hub. Over the years I got to know not only the football player, but the Man. Unfortunately he played on some of the worst Bear teams in history, and never got the chance to play in any post season games except for a 1st round game in 1977. RIP. He led Louisville in tackles three straight years and remains third on the all-time career list for tackles made with 479. Deepest Sympathy to the family. And I don't know if we really improved after that (with) our draft choices or whatever. I never heard him gripe, Butkus said. You have funeral questions, we have answers. Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. And yet, somehow, someway, neither player ever saw the postseason with some of the Bears' potential momentum slowed by a pair of knee injuries suffered by Sayers. Everybody on the team wanted To wear Butkus's number; I proudly wore 55 ! Buffone's team record for games played was ultimately eclipsed by former long snapper Patrick Mannelly, who now holds the mark with 245. Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. Ways to honor Doug Buffone's life and legacy. My sincerest condolences to one of my best friends. Radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone dies at 70 (Photo: 1977), quoted by the Tribune from his radio show. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. Our prayers go out to his wife, Dana, and his children. His retirement ended a link to our founder as he was the last active player to play for George Halas. Buffone, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in club history for a linebacker, Doug Buffone will be missed." Besides being a hell of a football player, he was a hell of a guy.. Buffone and his family resided in Chicago, and he was heavily involved in Chicago sports and broadcasting. You made us all so proud to be from Shannock Valley High School. Paramedics and police were summoned to Buffone's home on Chicago's West Side and found a 70-year-old man dead due to natural causes, said police spokesman Thomas Sweeney. Both players eventually found their way into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. We partied and danced Disco there frequently after ball games. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. We pray for him and for the family . It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it," tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. All rights reserved, Storm System Could Bring Rain, Snow, and Gusty Winds to Chicago Area Friday, Chicago Police Officer Shot and Killed on Southwest Side, Chicago Police Release Details of What Led to Officer's Fatal Shooting in Gage Park, Who Did Your Ward Vote For? Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. I am Dyke's 1st cousin. Buffone had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. He also had the honor of serving as defensive captain for eight seasons, beginning in 1972. Loving brother of Sam, Dennis, Joseph, Debbie, Donna Jeanne and Tina. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. In May 2009, Buffone and his long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago Sports Webio. "He was a very special guy.". Doug gave much pleasure and smiles to all of Chicago once he came aboard his Rookie year. Former Bears coach Mike Ditka said Buffone had a lot of passion for the team, adding he has "nothing but great memories about him.". the former Bears linebacker who died Buffone, a well-liked and passionate linebacker who played 14 seasons for the Bears, was found dead at his home. I will be 60 years old this year and have been a Bears season ticket holder since 1980. Buffone and his family resided in Chicago, and he was heavily involved in Chicago sports and broadcasting. CHICAGO (AP) Former Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, was found dead Monday in his . "You didn't get the exposure like you do today," Butkus said. He was 70. Love for the game - good citizen - living life with a passion - Let the person who is perfect in life - please stand - Only God is perfect; Mr. Buffone you caught the football and carried it for a touchdown to the gates of Heaven. Condolences to the family on your loss.. Tucker McKinney. We are praying for you and family. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. 63-yo Bodybuilder Doug Brignoles Cause of Death Revealed As Covid-19 Infection Not Vaccination While there was speculation about Brignole's death, L.A. My thoughts and prayers are with Dana and the entire family! His rebound downs Marian Catholic. It's funny how we strangers can call him Doug, but that's who he was to us. I hope that Doug and Norm Van Lear reunite and I can just hear the 2 of them. CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, died Monday at the age of 70. God Bless his soul and now eternal life through Jesus Christ. Offering my sincere condolences. He also held the team's record for most games played with 186. Beloved husband to Dana, devoted father to Doug, Jr., Stephanie, Talleri, Ryan, Hailey and Heather, and grandfather to Nicholas and Avery Buffone, George and Madelyn Loureiro and Evelyn and Henry McKenna. Buffone was an entrepreneur, and part owner of several Chicago area businesses, including "Gibson's Steak House", one of the most popular nightspots in Chicago's Rush Street area, and Digital One, a video production and streaming video company in the Chicago suburbs. RIP # 55. RIP Doug Buffone. I'm going to miss BIG DOUG! Projecting the futures of Kirk Cousins, Dalvin Cook and other Vikings veterans. Could the Cowboys look at a running back in first round again? ", Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. May god bless the buffone family. I'll never forget the laughs. Buffone was drafted by the Bears in 1966, spending 15 seasons with the team. "We lost one of our greats. He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. Buffone started a record 186 games as a Bear, during which time he recorded more than 1,200 tackles and 24 interceptions. Smooth and cool., Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. "His was a life really well lived," WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan Bernstein said. It's surprising how much a musical selection can affect mourning. Gone but never forgotten. Rest in peace, my friend. "He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. He was a great player and even better person after football. thank you Doug for making the Bears watchable , your news radio great God Bless rest in peace >>>AMEN. Hope to see you in Heaven some day. Dougie, you were a great teammate." The first two interceptions of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. "We are terribly saddened to hear of Doug's passing," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. Heartfelt sympathy to the Buffone family from an old Yatesboro neighbor and friend. Of course, it's the No. GOD Bless you all. Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. doug buffone obituary Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. Buffone's 14 seasons in Chicago are tied for second most in club history. Shamrock John. My deepest sympathy to the entire Buffone family. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. The team said in a statement that Buffone "will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. Mitch Rosen, WSCR operations director, called Buffone a Chicago original., Not only a great football player, a great person on the radio but more than anything, just a great individual, Rosen said. Today is a sad day for Bears nation. You taught me that it's o.k. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. And it's just that people are clamoring for more NFL. Thread starter richsox24; Start date Apr 20, 2015; richsox24 Apr 20, 2015 #1 Just reported. The thoughts and prayers of the people of Chicago are with Doug's family, friends, and many fans during this difficult time.". My condolences to the Buffone family. Had 11 solo tackles vs. New Orleans (10/6/74), Holds the Bears record for most career interceptions at linebacker (24), Was voted into the Louisville Hall of Fame with Johnny Unitas in 1979, National Italian American Sports hall of fame member since 1992, This page was last edited on 21 February 2023, at 06:39. He was a first cousin to my mother Marjorie Harland(Yanni). By the time Buffone wrapped up his brilliant career, he led all Bears linebackers with 24 career interceptions. Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. It drove him nuts when we didnt play well and we always appreciated that he wore his heart on his sleeve because we knew how much he cared. He was so proud of you and loved you like a son. A great Bear, but a better person. I was fortunate enough to have Doug as a mentor, teammate, & friend at the University of Louisville. We have fond memories of watching him play at Shannock.God's Peace be with you. #dougbuffone. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. As a University of Louisville teammate from 63-66 he was the inspiration and leader of everyone's effort. The team said in a statement that Buffone will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. 500) as one of seven children. Can the Lions fix their defense? Former Bear Doug Buffone dies at 70. (Reuters) - Doug Buffone, a linebacker who played 14 seasons for the National Football Leagues Chicago Bears before retiring in 1980 as the franchises all-time leader in games played, died on Monday at the age of 70, the team said. One time for Doug Buffone! Cause of death not yet known. "I don't think anybody that has played for the Bears ever had more.' You nick named me "sugar bear" and I accepted it. And I think this is going to help the whole situation. Adored his children and his Dana. (Chicago Tribune historical photo). Buffone, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in club history for a linebacker, was found dead in his Chicago home, the coroners office (Reuters) - Doug Buffone, a linebacker who played 14 seasons for the National Football League's Chicago Bears before retiring in 1980 as the franchise's all-time leader in games played, died on Monday at the age of 70, the team said. Paramedics and police were summoned to Buffone's home on Chicago's West Side and found a 70-year-old man dead due to natural causes, said police spokesman Thomas Sweeney. Chicago Bears legend Doug Buffone, who played in 186 games for the organization and is considered to be one of the greatest players to ever wear the teams uniform, died Monday at the age of 70. Syracuse Post Standard. So admired, and deservedly so. He made a difference in a good-way in a lot of people lives. I love and will miss you dearly! His earlier misses? When I was a little football manager at SVHS, Doug made me feel important to the team. Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70. Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bears linebackers. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations to Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital Heart and Vascular Center would be much appreciated. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. Born on June 27, 1944, in Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was the son of a coal miner. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.". Burlington Centrals Nicholas Gouriotis figures out the difference. I was just happy to be there, to tell you the truth. It's hard to say. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Doug Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker, has died. We are sorry to hear of Dougs passing. Expand the Memories and Condolences form. Smooth and cool., Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. Doug Buffone will be missed.". And every year we went to training camp I thought we were going to win. (Chicago Tribune historical photo). Our sincere condolences to the Buffone family. (670 The Score) Monday marked the five-year anniversary of beloved former Bears linebacker and Score personality Doug Buffone's death at age 70. What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative? Beyond my incredible respect for him he was a guy I loved, just like everybody I know who ever met him. He attended Shannock Valley High School. with funeral mass to follow at 6 pm. I met Buz at the Bears training camp in Rensselaer, Indiana in 1969, through his teammate and my best friend, Willie Holman. Buffone was an outspoken critic of the team in slow times, quoted by the Tribune from his radio show saying, "I could have gone to Rush Street last night and found 24 players who could do better than the Bears did today. Buffone was an entrepreneur, and part owner of several Chicago area businesses, including "Gibson's Steak House", one of the most popular nightspots in Chicago's Rush Street area, and Digital One, a video production and streaming video company in the Chicago suburbs. Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Apr. Remember taking Doug and several players to a local Catholic Church the day that JFK died. My condolences to your family you will be missed. Sadly, the personification of class and humility,is no longer with us. Not only a BEARS Icon, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son! God bless him. Your legacy will live forever in my heart and mind.. Bear Down! ", "His special relationship with Bears fans continued beyond his playing days, first through founding the Bear Report and later as one of the pioneers and long-time contributors to Chicagos first sports radio station, WSCR. My condolences to the family and he will be truly missed! 1 sport. Even the year we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were going to win and we just didn't. Doug was my football hero. Buffone, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in club history for a linebacker, was found dead in his Chicago home, the coroner's office said. "As I have loved you, Love one another" As the summertime approaches I am deeply aware of the extent to which Love has changed my life,The Love of strangers, for those in distress,The Love of family, The Love of Friends; And the ineffiable Love of Our Father in Heaven as expressed in the Gospels's Plan of Salvation and as Manifest in the Peace it gives in the face of devastating loss May His Love bring to you and your family the Peace is has brought to me this day and throughtout the coming days. A staple of the Bears' defense in the mid-1960s until his retirement following the 1979 season, Buffone arrived in Chicago in 1966 when team founder George Halas selected the linebacker in the fourth round of the NFL draft out of Louisville. "It drove him nuts when we didn't play well, and we always appreciated that he wore his heart on his sleeve because we knew how much he cared," McCaskey said. Paramedics and police were summoned to Buffone's home on Chicago's West Side and found a 70-year-old man dead due to natural causes, said police You will always be an inspiration. He left an indelible impression on the market's young, aspiring broadcasters, including former colleague and current co-host of ESPN Radio's Mike and Mike program, Mike Greenberg. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. He was a Pro Bowler in my eyes on my team., In recent years, Buffone hosted a Bears postgame radio show on WSCR-AM 670 with Ed OBradovich. His retirement ended a link to our founder as he was the last active player to play for George Halas.. Buffone in recent years hosted a Bears postgame radio show on WSCR-AM with former teammate Ed O'Bradovich. CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, Following his collegiate career, Buffone was selected by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 1966 NFL Draft and the eighth round of the American Football League Draft by the San Diego Chargers. Butkus admits he's often asked about what might have been had Sayers stayed healthy and extended his career. They don't make them like that anymore. He provided broadcast color commentary for the first NFL game (featuring the Bears and the Dallas Cowboys) in Europe. The Bears selected him in the fourth round of the 1966 NFL draft and he chose the team over a better contract offer from San Diego in the old AFL. Doug Buffone was very kind to the Dominican Friars at Fenwick High School outside of Chicago. "Doug's passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched, and he will be missed.". In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. On "The Score", Buffone also co-hosted shows with Mike North (The Wise Guys) and Norm Van Lier (The Bear and The Bull) as well as other hosts. Buffone, the son of a coal miner (whose parents were Italian immigrants from the southern province of Cosenza, regione di Calabria), attended high school at Shannock Valley High School in Rural Valley, Pennsylvania. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. I Had the pleasure of working for him at BBC. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. Doug Buffone, a former Bears linebacker who made a seamless transition from a prominent football career to a successful second life as a popular Chicago sports Food has always been a go-to for people in mourning. "One of the most memorable drafts in Bears history came 50 years ago, a 20-player haul that was defined by the two players taken at the top of the first round with Butkus selected third overall and running back Gale Sayers taken with the very next pick in the round.Butkus was named to the Pro Bowl after his first eight seasons, a vicious and powerful playmaker on defense. Doug earned huge affection for his powerfully candid post-game show on WSCR-AM 670 with long-time friend and former teammate Ed O'Bradovich. Dana, and family'. ~Ps. It was an exhibition game in 1966. Thanks doug. Doug Buffone loved to tell stories, especially the one about his first game against the rival Packers. They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel. He played the part of "Big Doug", a bookie and collector, noted for his humour in character as "Big Doug". Paramedics and police were summoned to Buffone's home on Chicago's West Side and found a 70-year-old man dead from natural causes, said police A great player on the field and an even better man off the field in all aspects. "It drove him nuts when we didn't play well and we always appreciated that he wore his heart on his sleeve because we knew how much he cares," McCaskey said in a statement. I have nothing but great memories about him., Doug was a Bear. I never met Mr. Dougbut I loved to listen to him and his buddy OB, after a Bears win/loss, AND learned alot about football. Doug spent his entire career with the Bears (1966-79) serving as defensive captain for eight years. And I didn't call. (Reporting by Steve Ginsburg in Washington; Editing by Peter Cooney), The Rush: Suns Kevin Durant dazzles in his debut against the Hornets, Sexual assault lawsuit against Jerry Jones revived after appeal, likely headed for trial, No. Dear Dana, Kay Varga and I are thinking of you and sending you heartfelt prayers to give you strength to help you through this most difficult time. "But the meek will possess the earth, And they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace." In addition to the 24 interceptions, Buffone had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. "I don't know," he said. "There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone." CHICAGO (AP) Former Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, was found dead Monday in his home, according to police. Paramedics were called to Buffones home in the 1200 block of West Lexington Street around 1:30 p.m. Monday, according to police and fire officials. Buffone, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in club history for a linebacker, was found dead in his Chicago home, the coroners office said. The Associated Press. Butkus will have a role in next week's production downtown, announcing one of the Bears' selections on the draft's second day. I'm sure my dad is dancing and singing (two of his favorite things) in heaven having you up there with him. "Butkus remembered Buffone as a hard-working teammate who spent his 14 seasons with the Bears invested in the team rather than chasing his own personal glory. He was always engaging, wore his heart on his sleeve, and was a conduit to the Bears fans through the great Doug and OB Post Game shows. Buffone's 14 seasons in Chicago are tied for second most in club history. A true friend. He played the game with passion and conviction. Thanks for the memories, and God bless the Buffone family. Buffone, who is third on the Bears all-time list in games played, was a member of the Bears for his entire 14-year career, and he holds several records, including sacks in a season and most career interceptions by a linebacker. Tribune reporter Carlos Sadovi contributed. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Love listening to him and O'bradovich after Bears games. He will be missed. Great athlete! Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions, the most for any Bears linebacker. He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. My God Bless Doug and his Family. The (NFL) has just done a great job of marketing the game. Doug was an excellent linebacker and had great career. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. Enjoy that great football field in the sky. Postgames will never be the same without him. I was fortunate to meet him a few times at autographing sessions and was in awe of how he handled everyone with a smile, joke and even a story. "But that kind of floored me when my son called me and said what had happened. R.I.P. Doug was one of the founders of the Arena Football League, starting the Chicago Bruisers franchise, which played in the ArenaBowl II, he appeared on some Bruisers Radio and TV broadcasts with Les Grobstein, and was involved in the United States Football League with the Chicago Blitz. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.". I was 10 when I attended tha bobby Douglas football camp at moose heart in the suburbs I remember Doug I got his autograph and recall was very nice and happy to be there rip go bears, My condolences on the painful loss of Doug Buffone. PEACE. Veteran head coach Frank Camp, who tutored NFL greats like Johnny Unitas, Lenny Lyles, Ernie Green and Ken Kortas, said Buffone was "the most complete ball player I've ever coached.". Statement from Bears Chairman George McCaskey: "We are terribly saddened to hear of Dougs passing. I am sad that I won't be able to listen to him any more. ", "His was a life really well lived," WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan Bernstein said. He left an indelible impression on the market's young, aspiring broadcasters, including former colleague and current co-host of ESPN Radio's Mike and Mike program, Mike Greenberg. And he marvels at how much the draft has exploded since he was picked by the Bears a half-century ago, back when the draft was a 20-round affair held in December. Doug Buffone will be missed.. I knew doug throughout the 70,s and there after our paths crossed on occasion,and each time he would greet you with a BIG buffone smile! All the accolades he received, he deserved, and then some. Doug, a kind soul. Buffones team record for games played was ultimately eclipsed by former long snapper Patrick Mannelly, who now holds the mark with 245. Reporting by Steve Ginsburg in Washington; Editing by Peter Cooney. Buffone was the star of a popular segment of the Mully and Hanley show on WCSR on Fridays during the football season. Condolences to the family. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.. Mr Buffone has always been a true ambassador for Chicago, the Bears, and the NFL. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. Great player, sportscaster and Chicagoan. Born in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone played linebacker and center from 1962 to 1965 at the University of Louisville. The man was later identified as Buffone, who played 14 seasons for the Bears. "That bitterness never, ever was there with Doug, ever," he said. WebAge, Biography and Wiki. God Bless, Linda Poulos. 3 all-time tackler with 479, just nine stops behind the program's all-time leader Mark Sander (198790). You never gave up on the field and you always wished the best for the Bears. Doug Buffone will be missed." Former Bears teammates remembered Buffone as an affable, fun-loving athlete with an engaging personality. Doug, God has brought you home for the rest and comfort of a life well lived. However, in June 2009, the founder of Chicago Sports Webio was charged with operating a Ponzi scheme, and the site was shut down. Player News. David Kessler's top 4 tips for dealing with holiday grief. Just did n't Church the day that JFK died his long-time Bears partner... And enduring friendship, '' former Bears teammates remembered Buffone as an affable, fun-loving athlete with engaging. Healthy and extended his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Unitas! Proud to be there, to tell stories, especially the one about his game. 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Know Doug for 32 years, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons 's! The day that JFK died 's effort hope that Doug and Norm Van Lear reunite I... That JFK died Van Lear reunite doug buffone cause of death I accepted it unresponsive, police.... And smiles to all of Chicago once he came aboard his Rookie.. Into the Pro football Hall of Fame tackles and 24 interceptions, the personification of class and,. And O'Bradovich after Bears games found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said for George Halas career off., charitable donations to Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital Heart and Vascular Center would be much appreciated have... But that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. guy I loved, nine! Bitterness never, ever was there with him I accepted it Husband, Father, Grandfather son... We partied and danced Disco there frequently after ball games candid post-game show WCSR... Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said Dallas ). Wo n't be able to listen to him and O'Bradovich after Bears.. Fumbles and 37 sacks the personification of class and humility, is no longer with us field and always...