He spoke at the Fenwick Fathers' Club several times about how much he enjoyed his own high school football days. He had like bird legs but a developed upper body. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. Buffone died due to natural causes, said police spokesman Thomas Sweeney. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. GOD Bless you all. Sadly, the personification of class and humility,is no longer with us. The first two pickoffs of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. Projecting the futures of Kirk Cousins, Dalvin Cook and other Vikings veterans. "He wasn't worried about his awards or anything else," Butkus said. He played the part of "Big Doug", a bookie and collector, noted for his humour in character as "Big Doug". WebDoug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, USA. Buffone had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. Condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. From the sidelines of the Chicago Bears to the Casino, you will be greatly missed. He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. 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. In May 2009, Buffone and his long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago Sports Webio. Doug and OB were my therapy after a tough loss and part of my celebration after a great win. A native of Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears in 1966 out of Louisville. I'm going to miss BIG DOUG! A life well lived. Doug was very passionate about the Bears and how they played! Hope to see you in Heaven some day. and Love. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. PEACE. Adored his children and his Dana. Ways to honor Doug Buffone's life and legacy. "People talk about all that. 3 all-time tackler with 479, just nine stops behind the program's all-time leader Mark Sander (198790). My thoughts and prayers are with Dana and the entire family! Buffone was pronounced dead on the scene Monday Offering my sincere condolences. Send simple, comforting meals with Home Chef. He was a Bears rookie. Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. When I was a little football manager at SVHS, Doug made me feel important to the team. We have fond memories of watching him play at Shannock.God's Peace be with you. He is known for The NFL on CBS (1956), NFL Monday Night Football (1970) and The NFL on NBC (1965). (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. It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it," tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. He was 70. I'm sure my dad is dancing and singing (two of his favorite things) in heaven having you up there with him. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. We are praying for you and family. Cause of death not yet known. Dougie, you were a great teammate." What a guy! Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70.[4]. Played 186 games as a Bear, the third most among Bears. This is a big event. He was selected in the fourth round of the 1966 NFL draft out of Louisville. Doug Buffone will be missed. Doug's athletic prowess at Shannock Valley High School earned him a scholarship to the University of Louisville where he established a career total of 479 tackles, which remains third in program history to this day. Loving brother of Sam, Dennis, Joseph, Debbie, Donna Jeanne and Tina. Fred, Shelly, Anthony, and Stefanie Caito, My deepest sympathy to your family, and may you keep in mind the scriptural hope of life everlasting which can help sustain you through this difficult time-John 17:3, I met Doug a few years ago at an IL CPA function where he was a guest speaker at the luncheon. Other shows Buffone was involved in producing included The Neal Anderson Show for WBBM-AM, and The Mike Ditka Show for WSCR-AM. Statement from Bears Chairman George McCaskey: "We are terribly saddened to hear of Dougs passing. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Doug was a lifelong entrepreneur, owning enterprises as varied as an embroidery company and a high-tech online video platform. Not only a BEARS Icon, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son! Doug was one of the most dependable players in franchise history and perhaps its most beloved. 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. 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. Chicago and bear fans around the world will miss you. Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bears linebackers. "His talent for tackling on the field earned him a special place in Bears history and his contributions in business and broadcasting made him a treasured member of our community off the field. Tony Catanese Mechanicsville,MD. Born in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone played linebacker and center from 1962 to 1965 at the University of Louisville. Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. DOUG YOU REMIND ME OF MY BROTHER WHO DIED MANY YEARS AGO. It's funny how we strangers can call him Doug, but that's who he was to us. (670 The Score) Monday marked the five-year anniversary of beloved former Bears linebacker and Score personality Doug Buffone's death at age 70. Food has always been a go-to for people in mourning. Copyright 2023 WLS-TV. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love. "He was a very special guy.". In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. "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. The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards. Copyright 2023 ESPN Internet Ventures. I should have made the call. I was just happy to be there, to tell you the truth. 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. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. The Buffone Family is in my prayers. Born on June 27, 1944, in Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was the son of a coal miner. My sister Flora Davidson and I send our sympathy to the whole Buffone family. It's a great event that they're (now) going to have it in Chicago. Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone's relationship with the team's fans continued beyond his playing days. Even the year we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were going to win and we just didn't. Thread starter richsox24; Start date Apr 20, 2015; richsox24 Apr 20, 2015 #1 Just reported. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. He was so proud of you and loved you like a son. 37:10. I had the PLEASURE of meeting him in person a few times and you could just see and his passion for the game and his love of the Bears. I have nothing but great memories about him., Doug was a Bear. I am Dyke's 1st cousin. Tom Shaer. If youre in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist. His retirement from football also signaled the end of an era for the Bears as he was the last active Bear to have played for George Halas. Buffone played collegiate football for Louisville. At the time of his retirement, Buffone was the Bears' all-time leader in games played with 186. RIP. God Bless his soul and now eternal life through Jesus Christ. A fearsome linebacker during a 14-year career, Doug transitioned into an instinctively honest analyst of the Bears, more or less, beginning with his retirement in 1979. And it's just that people are clamoring for more NFL. ", "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. Thank you Mr Buffone, your example shows us how to live and to love. Such an amazing man. I love and will miss you dearly! For some people, the best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: a big party. Grief researchers say holding that missing funeral service, even a year or more later, can still help us heal. 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 will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. And now it just seems that (the excitement) is not just starting in August at training camps. 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. Thank you for your friendship. Remember taking Doug and several players to a local Catholic Church the day that JFK died. WebAge, Biography and Wiki. We lost one of our greats. May memories of him and the love of your family and friends give you strength in the days ahead. Doug Buffone will be missed.. In a statement, O'Bradovich said: Being with Doug the last 49 years, I know that no one person could love a family more than Doug. Visitation on Friday at Old St. Patrick's Church, 700 W. Adams, Friday at 2 pm. Listening to him and Ed was great. He led Louisville in tackles three straight years and remains third on the all-time career list for tackles made with 479. 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. He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. Not bad for the son of a coal miner who grew up in tiny Yatesboro, Pennsylvania (pop. Please tell my dad, your Uncle Joe, hi and we miss and love him. 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. The bottom line is he was true and loyal to his family, to football and to his friends. He served as an unofficial ambassador for the team he loved and the game he devoted himself to, earning legions of friends and admirers through his unfailing graciousness and good-hearted nature. He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. 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. My father Ernie Poulos enjoyed your company so much. R.I.P. Many prayers to our cousins for the loss of Doug. Number 55 is officially retired.Rest in peace,Doug. Former Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone's legacy stretches far beyond the football field. Police were called to Buffones Chicago home on Monday afternoon, where he was found unresponsive in bed. "Doug's passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched, and he will be missed.". "It's the 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. 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. And I didn't call. ol' buddy! My condolences to Dana and the children. My prayers and condolences for his family and dear friends. Butkus spoke on a variety of topics during a conference call Tuesday, a call held by the NFL as the league continues promoting next week's NFL draft here in Chicago. NFL draft questions for teams in the top 10: Will the Colts trade up? #dougbuffone. Why the Packers' transition to Jordan Love, whenever it happens, will require patience, A new home for Michael Thomas? Doug Buffone will be missed." Remember Doug "Dike" from my days at U of L. He was a star (I was nobody---Just a regular student) but he always took the time to talk. I never heard him gripe, Butkus said. Condolences to the family. 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. Dana, and family'. Buffone went on to play 15 seasons at linebacker for the Bears, retiring in 1980 as the all-time leader in games played for the legendary organization. I have fond memories of our boyhood days in Yatesboro. He was 70. I have so much inspiration from his work ethic, his authenticity, approach to life, and he has helped me find strength in difficult times with his outlook, wisdom, laughs, and smiles. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions, the most for any Bears linebacker. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. My condolences to Dana & children, Mr.Buffone you were a solid contributor to society and the Bears.A real class act God Bless you and your entire family.You will be missed. He was a fourth-round draft pick. My God Bless Doug and his Family. He provided broadcast color commentary for the first NFL game (featuring the Bears and the Dallas Cowboys) in Europe. It was my privilege to know Doug for 32 years, going back to when he owned Doug Buffone's Bear Report. What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative? God bless him. I appreciated his honesty and knowledge and just want to say thank you Big Doug. My thoughts and prayers are with the Buffone family! Radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone dies at 70 (Photo: 1977), quoted by the Tribune from his radio show. ESPN'sJeff Dickerson andThe Associated Press contributed to this report. Buffone is survived by his wife, Dana, and six children: Doug Jr., Stephanie, Talleri, Ryan, Hailey and Heather. only met a couple times.. truly a class act .. Condolences to his friends and family. My deepest sympathy to the entire Buffone family. I cannot tell you how much I will miss him.. He was a good person, a true man's man and utterly devoted to his family and friends. It was an exhibition game in 1966. "There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone." Doug Buffone Birthday and Date of Death Doug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015. 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. Tribune reporter Carlos Sadovi contributed. Doug was my football hero. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. "We lost one of our greats. CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, May the God of all comfort be with you all. "Sending our heartfelt condolences to family & friends of ex-#Bears LB Doug Buffone, who has passed away at age 70,"the Chicago Bears tweeted. You have funeral questions, we have answers. 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