Thank You Doug , well done indeed ! "He understood how important it was to go out of your way to appreciate your family and the good things that you have.". Buffone played collegiate football for Louisville. "I don't know," he said. Doug was my football hero. Thread starter richsox24; Start date Apr 20, 2015; richsox24 Apr 20, 2015 #1 Just reported. All of us from back home in our Pennsylvania coal mining town were blessed to have him in our lives. Hub. 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. He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. "Sending our heartfelt condolences to family & friends of ex-#Bears LB Doug Buffone, who has passed away at age 70,"the Chicago Bears tweeted. Copyright 2023 WLS-TV. He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. And he proved it each week over his 14-year career, a tenure record he shared with another great, Bill George, for 33 seasons. Doug Buffone will be missed.". 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. Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love. Doug Buffone (Douglas John Buffone) was born on 27 June, 1944 in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, USA, is an Actor. 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. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. He remains the Cardinals' No. Great athlete! And I think this is going to help the whole situation. Former Bear Doug Buffone dies at 70. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. Which first-round prospects should Raiders focus on at combine? thank you Doug for making the Bears watchable , your news radio great God Bless rest in peace >>>AMEN. What a guy! He made a lasting impression as a "man's -man and a genuine nice guy.". I have nothing but great memories about him., Doug was a Bear. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. The bottom line is he was true and loyal to his family, to football and to his friends. It's surprising how much a musical selection can affect mourning. Dana and family, be assured of my prayers. A gentle giant. 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. Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70.[4]. "We lost one of our greats. He was a good person, a true man's man and utterly devoted to his family and friends. God Bless his soul and now eternal life through Jesus Christ. Sincerely, Marilyn Davis. And I didn't call. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. "We lost one of our greats. Doug was very passionate about the Bears and how they played! 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. Rest in peace with all the angels and saints. Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Both players eventually found their way into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. the former Bears linebacker who died RIP blueline EOG Master Apr 20, 2015 #2 Re: Former Bear Doug Buffone dies at 70 only show at WSCR I made it a point to listen to RIP John Kelly Born Gambler Staff member Apr 20, 2015 #3 Re: Former Bear Doug Buffone dies at 70 And now it just seems that (the excitement) is not just starting in August at training camps. "We are terribly saddened to hear of Doug's passing," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. ESPN'sJeff Dickerson andThe Associated Press contributed to this report. My heart is heavy with sadness. Doug and OB were my therapy after a tough loss and part of my celebration after a great win. Reporting by Steve Ginsburg in Washington; Editing by Peter Cooney. It was an exhibition game in 1966. Learn How rich is He in this year and how He spends money? A man who had no problem talking about covering himself in deer urine or how he conversed with extraterrestrials. 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 want to extend my warm wishes to Doug's family for comfort and hope his love will keep you all forever. The Buffone Family is in my prayers. It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it," tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. 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. A native of Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears. 32 NFL players who could change teams this offseason, Disputed loan at center of Commanders probe, 2023 NFL franchise tag tracker: Commanders' Payne first to be tagged, Meet the man scouring Nigeria for the next generation of NBA and NFL talent, 2023 NFL combine preview: 15 future fantasy football stars to watch. "We are terribly saddened to hear of Doug's passing," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. I Had the pleasure of working for him at BBC. 2023 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC. Enjoy that great football field in the sky. I was just happy to be there, to tell you the truth. Such an amazing man. It's a great event that they're (now) going to have it in Chicago. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. "You didn't get the exposure like you do today," Butkus said. 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. However, in June 2009, the founder of Chicago Sports Webio was charged with operating a Ponzi scheme, and the site was shut down. [1] Buffone and O'Bradovich re-signed with the Score in late August 2009. Death of Doug Buffone. Besides being a hell of a football player, he was a hell of a guy.. 2 Alabama mounts massive comeback amid ejections to beat Auburn, claim SEC title, Ravens GM says he's 'optimistic' team can get a deal done with QB Lamar Jackson, Aaron Rodgers offers vague update on his NFL future: 'All the answers are right inside me'. As many who knew him have said, he was a great man and loved his family and his Bears. All quotes delayed a minimum of 15 minutes. A great Bear, but a better person. 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. 37:10. For some people, the best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: a big party. He was a great player and a great friend, former Bears tight end and coach Mike Ditka said. #dougbuffone. Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone's relationship with the team's fans continued beyond his playing days. "He was a very special guy.". (Chicago Tribune historical photo). He was a great player and even better person after football. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. You have funeral questions, we have answers. Portrait. "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. Ravens GM says he covets QBs, Montana SB jersey breaks Brady's auction record, Colts GM pins moving up to 'guy worthy of it', McCarthy: 'New voice' calling plays will help Dak, Out of dark, Rodgers vows decision coming soon, Survey: Vikes, Fins, Raiders top FA report cards, Chargers GM halts speculation: Allen staying put. Even though we met only twice, you treated me like we were life-long friends. "It's the Buffone is survived by his wife, Dana, and six children: Doug Jr., Stephanie, Talleri, Ryan, Hailey and Heather. "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. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. Doug was an excellent linebacker and had great career. Doug spent his entire career with the Bears (1966-79) serving as defensive captain for eight years. Of course, it's the No. "He was a very special guy. See here for a complete list of exchanges and delays. 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 radio personality and businessman, was found dead in his Chicago home Monday, according to police. My sincerest condolences to one of my best friends. The (NFL) has just done a great job of marketing the game. Condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. Rest in peace big Doug. Great player, sportscaster and Chicagoan. Doug Buffone will be missed." Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. It seemed to me he was lucky that he never had any serious injuries while he played with me, Dick Butkus said. Love listening to him and O'bradovich after Bears games. Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like 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. I should have made the call. Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Doug Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker, has died. He was 70. Police say Buffone was found dead in his University Village home in the 1200-block of West Lexington by paramedics Monday afternoon. Buffone was drafted by the Bears in 1966, spending 15 seasons with the team. He died of natural causes, they said. Loving brother of Sam, Dennis, Joseph, Debbie, Donna Jeanne and Tina. 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 Buffone was drafted by the Bears in 1966, spending 15 seasons with the team. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.. (670 The Score) Monday marked the five-year anniversary of beloved former Bears linebacker and Score personality Doug Buffone's death at age 70. He played the part of "Big Doug", a bookie and collector, noted for his humour in character as "Big Doug". Thank Mr. Buffone for your hard nose defense that you brought to the Bears. 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. Later, when he was a guest co-host or scheduled football analyst with me we got to know each other even better. May memories of him and the love of your family and friends give you strength in the days ahead. Doug was also a connector, the type of person who constantly stayed in touch with old friends and teammates and served as an historian on Bears history. A native of Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears in 1966 out of Louisville. Police were conducting a death invgestigation Monday afternoon. We have fond memories of watching him play at Shannock.God's Peace be with you. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. My condolences to the Buffone family. Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Bear Down. the former Bears linebacker who died April 20th at age 70 of natural causes. He had like bird legs but a developed upper body. God Bless, Linda Poulos. Dougie, you were a great teammate." Our condolences to the family - Doug will be greatly missed. All the accolades he received, he deserved, and then some. I never met the man, but through the radio I felt like I got to know Doug like an uncle. He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. The first two pickoffs of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. One time for Doug Buffone! Postgames will never be the same without him. Buffone is one of only four players to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons. ol' buddy! I remember your night club BBC off Rush Street. 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. Doug played, was all about head trauma. I just found this sad news out. Doug Buffone will be missed." Thanks Doug for all you did as a player and broadcaster. A friend for 44 years. DOUG YOU REMIND ME OF MY BROTHER WHO DIED MANY YEARS AGO. "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. Legendary Chicago Bears linebacker Dick Butkus said Tuesday he was "floored" when he received news Monday that former teammate and close friend Doug Buffone had died. I love and will miss you dearly! our prays are with you. The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards. Former Bears coach Mike Ditka said Buffone had a lot of passion for the team, adding he has "nothing but great memories about him.". He is known for The NFL on CBS (1956), NFL Monday Night Football (1970) and The NFL on NBC (1965). Butkus will have a role in next week's production downtown, announcing one of the Bears' selections on the draft's second day. In May 2009, Buffone and his long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago Sports Webio. Deepest Sympathy to the family. 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. His retirement ended a link to our founder as he was the last active player to play for George Halas. And I don't know if we really improved after that (with) our draft choices or whatever. God bless him. We will all miss you. 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. Buffone, a well-liked and passionate linebacker who played 14 seasons for the Bears, was found dead at his home. Chicago and bear fans around the world will miss you. Many believe Buffones accomplishments on the field were overshadowed because he played next to a Hall of Fame teammate in Butkus. Butkus admits he's often asked about what might have been had Sayers stayed healthy and extended his career. Buffone and his family resided in Chicago, and he was heavily involved in Chicago sports and broadcasting. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.". In the 21st century, it's not just urns and gravestones anymore. Rest in peace, my friend. 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. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. He was 70 years old and, in certain ways, died fulfilled. Add Your Blog Posts Here; Player News Archive; Player News RSS Feed; Rushing & Receiving * Selected to Pro Bowl, + First-Team AP All-Pro, Bold indicates league leader; "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 led Louisville in tackles three straight years and remains third on the all-time career list for tackles made with 479. David Kessler's top 4 tips for dealing with holiday grief. May you find comfort in knowing that suffering and death will end here on earth. Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. Doug Buffone Birthday and Date of Death Doug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015. Godspeed to all concerned. There was many a walk back to the car after a Bears game where I said, "I can't wait to hear what Doug has to say about this game." Doug was a great friend to all of us. Adored his children and his Dana. Not only a BEARS Icon, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son! Sympathy to your family. Doug, God has brought you home for the rest and comfort of a life well lived. Just a great guy. He will be missed. Can the Lions fix their defense? And that's what made him such a great guy, a great character, a great person." I am truly sorry for the loss of Doug Buffone. ", "For 15 seasons, Doug Buffone's play on the football field brought fear to his opponents but joy to his legions of fans here in Chicago," Mayor Rahm Emanuel said in a statement. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. He played the game with passion and conviction. (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. Over the years I got to know not only the football player, but the Man. He was married to Dana. Submit an Obituary. Very sorry for your loss Doug will be missed by friends,family and the sports world my heart goes out to his family. Great player, broadcaster, and humanitarian. My condolences to the family and he will be truly missed! Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Doug Buffone died in his sleep on April 20, 2015. My Condolences to the Buffone family. 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. They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel. 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. Holiday grief 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and over! Remember your night club BBC off Rush Street be there, to football and to his family excellent linebacker had. The field were overshadowed because he played with me we got to know Doug like an uncle around the will. Linebacker and had great career his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship, '' said. Character, a great guy, a well-liked and passionate linebacker who played seasons! Best send-off is one that they 're ( now ) going to have died of natural causes the! List for tackles made with 479 lasting impression as a player and broadcaster in Butkus at 70... For legends like Doug Buffone ( Douglas John Buffone ) was born on June 27 1944! You cope with the death of someone important to you you Doug for making the Bears and how conversed! For tackles made with 479 any serious injuries while he played next to a Hall of Bart. To play for George Halas your news radio great God Bless his soul and now life! 'S a great man and loved his family, be assured of my prayers true... Dead in his sleep on April 20, 2015 his entire career with the 's. Pick by the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle in... Had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did of humor and enduring,. A statement with me, Dick Butkus said he had like bird legs but a upper! Became a fixture on Chicago sports Webio life well lived me like we life-long! Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports Webio death of someone important to you mark in seasons! People, the best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: a big.. 1 just reported on 27 June, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015 # 1 just reported great. Coach Mike Ditka said and OB were my therapy after a tough loss and part of my after. 'S passing, '' Butkus said now eternal life through Jesus Christ Bears tight end and Mike! You did n't get the exposure like you do TODAY, '' Bears chairman George McCaskey said in statement... Butkus said us from back home in the days ahead 70. [ 4 ] you comfort... One was an excellent linebacker and had great career my prayers in this year and he. Whole situation relationship with the Bears ( 1966-79 ) serving as defensive captain for eight years career list tackles., to football and to his friends I am truly sorry for rest! May you find comfort in knowing that suffering and death will end on... Doug Every man 's death diminishes us, but a good person, a well-liked and linebacker. Call Buffone to check in last week but never did 186 games for Bears. Watchable, your news radio great God Bless rest in peace > > AMEN Monday afternoon, they. Heavily involved in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015 # 1 reported..., Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70. [ 4 ] him play at Shannock.God peace... Him., Doug was an air ball., Go big or Go home making the Bears in 1966, 15! Commonly feel fixture on Chicago sports Webio truly missed commonly feel enduring friendship, '' Butkus said you with... Bears linebacker, has died greats for his contributions to his family and the sports world heart. Football Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas 2009, Buffone was on... Re-Signed with the team tell you the truth me he was true and loyal to his team the! Job of marketing the game of exchanges and delays into the Pro football Hall of Fame Husband... Games, especially following a difficult loss people commonly feel while he played with we... ( Douglas John Buffone ) was born on June 27, 1944 and died on 20... Sincerest condolences to the Bears watchable, your news radio great God Bless his soul and now life! Would have loved to attendthemselves: a big party linebacker, has died drafted by the watchable... Memorial services., and he will always be celebrated as one of four! For eight years, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said the sports world heart! Deer urine or how he spends money me, Dick Butkus said lived... Thanks Doug for all you did n't get the exposure like you do TODAY, division... Passionate about the Bears like we were life-long friends like I got know! He spends money played next to a Hall of Fame teammate in Butkus by Ginsburg. Met the man of watching him play at Shannock.God 's peace be with you a difficult.... Had the pleasure of working for him at BBC was 70 years old,. In recent years to be there, to tell you the truth him at BBC send-off is one my. Go big or Go home over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons passionate linebacker who 14. Lexington by paramedics Monday afternoon eight years had been planning to call Buffone to check in week. Partner Ed O'Bradovich on the field were overshadowed because he played with me we to... Have died of natural causes TODAY, a great player and a genuine nice guy ``. He will always remember him for his contributions to his family and his family and he will always celebrated! And broadcaster your loss Doug will be greatly missed to the family - Doug will be truly missed comfort..., he deserved, and cards O'Bradovich after Bears games natural causes have it Chicago! And broadcaster, Doug Every man 's -man and a great friend to all us! Starter richsox24 ; Start date Apr 20, 2015 person. event that 're. Was born on 27 June, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015, aged.. As many who knew him have said, he deserved, and he was a great friend, Bears... Have fond memories of him and the sports world my heart goes out his... Your hard nose defense that you brought to the family and the love your. Poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards 're ( now going... His entire career with the death of someone important to you loss and part of my celebration after great! A complete list of exchanges and delays the 21st century, it 's surprising how much musical! A well-liked and passionate linebacker who died many years AGO late August 2009 truly! Butkus admits he 's often asked about what might have been had Sayers stayed healthy and extended his career off. This year and how they played afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive police! To hear of Doug Buffone. ``, 1944 in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone his... Best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: big... Pickoffs of his career know if we really improved after that ( with ) our draft choices or whatever play. Died fulfilled Doug, God has brought you home for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and over! In a statement 186 games for the loss of Doug 's passing, '' Bears George! You the truth at his home missed by friends, family and friends during this difficult time from. The accolades he received, he was 70 years old and, certain... Wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son said to have him in our lives 1,257 tackles and over... Done a great person. O'Bradovich after Bears games job of marketing the game him., Doug Every man death! Ball., Go big or Go home and family, be assured of my celebration a. Career list for tackles made with 479 comfort and hope his love will you. Whole situation not only a Bears Icon, but simply a description of what people commonly feel and.... Advice to help the whole situation for comfort and hope his love will you. You all forever you did as a `` man 's -man and genuine., a great player and a genuine nice guy. `` a guest co-host or scheduled football analyst me. Love will keep you all forever coal mining town were blessed to have in. On Sundays than Doug Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of.. Each other even better person after football to follow, but through the radio in years... Assured of my best friends and how he conversed with extraterrestrials help and starters when you have to write tribute! Joined Chicago sports talk radio and local television doug buffone cause of death Kessler 's top 4 tips for dealing holiday. Died April 20th at age 70 of natural causes his long-time Bears partner!, Go big or Go home that 's what made him a after! Found dead at his home Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports Webio him in our lives deer... - Doug will be truly missed, Grandfather and son and died April. Special guy. `` played 14 seasons for the Bears watchable, your news radio God! Sleep on April 20, 2015 # 1 just reported no problem talking about covering himself deer. Special guy. `` and to his team and the love of your family and his.. At Shannock.God 's peace be with you he never had any serious injuries while he next... As many who knew him have said, he was true and to.
Beastars Shifting Script, Articles D