Doug Sr was a man of honor and humor, and will be missed by many. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. doug buffone obituary Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. "We lost one of our greats. My sister Flora Davidson and I send our sympathy to the whole Buffone family. 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 . The Associated Press contributed to this report. - 20 April 2015) (his death) (2 children) Trivia (1) Enjoy that great football field in the sky. GOD Bless you all. He also held the team's record for most games played with 186. We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. A friend for 44 years. "We lost one of our greats. He attended Shannock Valley High School. 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.". I have nothing but great memories about him., Doug was a Bear. Melanie Davidson Banks. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. In a 14-year NFL career, Buffone's rugged play and indomitable attitude represented the spirit of the Bears and the city of Chicago. You have funeral questions, we have answers. A savage warrior with a heart of gold. 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. Sympathy to your family. "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. I met Buz at the Bears training camp in Rensselaer, Indiana in 1969, through his teammate and my best friend, Willie Holman. Always enjoyed watching Doug play LB alongside Butkus and Brubacher, the 3 B's. We will all miss you. 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. Doug Buffone Birthday and Date of Death Doug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015. Doug, a kind soul. Buffone died due to natural causes, said police spokesman Thomas Sweeney. Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. He was just a good guy and we had a lot of fun.. You nick named me "sugar bear" and I accepted it. Sayers was a dazzling running back and return man who was electric almost every time he touched the ball. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. 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 But Butkus never gives it extended thought. 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. The (NFL) has just done a great job of marketing the game. Thanks for the memories, and God bless the Buffone family. I'm going to miss BIG DOUG! Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions, the most for any Bears linebacker. His earlier misses? My father Ernie Poulos enjoyed your company so much. Doug was an excellent linebacker and had great career. 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. It's hard to say. "Sending our heartfelt condolences to family & friends of ex-#Bears LB Doug Buffone, who has passed away at age 70,"the Chicago Bears tweeted. "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. David Kessler's top 4 tips for dealing with holiday grief. He was 70 years old and, in certain ways, died fulfilled. Great Player----Better Person. He channeled his passion for the team and sport into a successful career as a Chicago sports radio personality. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. Doug was the man. We lost one of our greats. By the time Buffone wrapped up his brilliant career, he led all Bears linebackers with 24 career interceptions. We kept saying, 'This is practice. R.I.P. "He understood how important it was to go out of your way to appreciate your family and the good things that you have.". Just a great guy. Sadly, the personification of class and humility,is no longer with us. In May 2009, Buffone and his long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago Sports Webio. 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. "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. He was 70. ", Copyright 2023 NBCUniversal Media, LLC. According to Bears media guides, Buffone also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. 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 Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. 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. I feel blessed to have known him. 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. And I don't know if we really improved after that (with) our draft choices or whatever. It's surprising how much a musical selection can affect mourning. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations to Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital Heart and Vascular Center would be much appreciated. I am Dyke's 1st cousin. And every year we went to training camp I thought we were going to win. ", "His was a life really well lived," WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan Bernstein said. WebDoug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, USA. His earlier misses? Javascript is required for the selection of a player. Thanks Doug for all you did as a player and broadcaster. We partied and danced Disco there frequently after ball games. 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. Sincerely, Marilyn Davis. Doug was my football hero. 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 RIP Doug.I will miss your post game show and all the fun stuff you did on the other shows.BIG DOUG! They don't make them like that anymore. June 27, 1944 - April 20, 2015 Chicago, Illinois | Age 70 Former Chicago Bears linebacker dies . It seemed to me he was lucky that he never had any serious injuries while he played with me, Dick Butkus said. Doug was the epitome of the All American as a player and gentlemen. He was the last active player to play for team founder George Halas. WebCompare Doug Buffone to . Send simple, comforting meals with Home Chef. From the sidelines of the Chicago Bears to the Casino, you will be greatly missed. "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. In the 21st century, it's not just urns and gravestones anymore. Heartfelt sympathy to the Buffone family from an old Yatesboro neighbor and friend. "He just did the job. "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. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Buffone is one of only four players to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons. Doug and OB were my therapy after a tough loss and part of my celebration after a great win. Copyright 2023 ESPN Internet Ventures. DOUG YOU REMIND ME OF MY BROTHER WHO DIED MANY YEARS AGO. 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. 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. Buffone had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. Buffone later laughed recalling how the real source of the odor was a dead rat they found in his locker buried beneath his stuff. His retirement ended a link to our founder as he was the last active player to play for George Halas.. He was married to Dana. Thread starter richsox24; Start date Apr 20, 2015; richsox24 Apr 20, 2015 #1 Just reported. 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. FYI the boy could dance.". It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it," tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. "It's the old syndrome," Butkus said Tuesday. (670 The Score) Monday marked the five-year anniversary of beloved former Bears linebacker and Score personality Doug Buffone's death at age 70. I was just happy to be there, to tell you the truth. Even the year we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were going to win and we just didn't. He provided broadcast color commentary for the first NFL game (featuring the Bears and the Dallas Cowboys) in Europe. Buffone played collegiate football for Louisville. with funeral mass to follow at 6 pm. Former Bears coach Mike Ditka said Buffone had a lot of passion for the team, adding he has "nothing but great memories about him.". Loving brother of Sam, Dennis, Joseph, Debbie, Donna Jeanne and Tina. He was a kind and very well respected person throughout his earthly life. He remains the Cardinals' No. And that's what made him such a great guy, a great character, a great person." His retirement ended a link to our founder as he was the last active player to play for George Halas. Former Bear Doug Buffone dies at 70. I Had the pleasure of working for him at BBC. Syracuse Post Standard Homepage. 3 all-time tackler with 479, just nine stops behind the program's all-time leader Mark Sander (198790). 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 was also a successful businessman dating back to his playing career, a restaurateur and bar owner and the founder of what is now known as the Bear Report. Even though we met only twice, you treated me like we were life-long friends. Other shows Buffone was involved in producing included The Neal Anderson Show for WBBM-AM, and The Mike Ditka Show for WSCR-AM. He was a fourth-round draft pick. Death of Doug Buffone. "Doug had a lot of passion for the Bears,' former teammate Mike Ditka said. He is known for The NFL on CBS (1956), NFL Monday Night Football (1970) and The NFL on NBC (1965). Doug Buffone will be missed.". A gentle giant. My condolences to the family and he will be truly missed! 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 was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it, tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. "This is kind of a lull in the year. What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative? Offering my sincere condolences. 1 sport. Buffone, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in club history for a linebacker, He will be deeply missed. ESPN'sJeff Dickerson andThe Associated Press contributed to this report. He played the game with passion and conviction. A great Bear, but a better person. I should have made the call. The others are Mark Sander, Tom Jackson (197072) and Tyrus McCloud (1994-96). Doug brought us all so much joy.."I am a 70 year woman who listens to The Score often, and I always loved Doug's passion and honesty.he made me smile. 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. Doug gave much pleasure and smiles to all of Chicago once he came aboard his Rookie year. RIP # 55. Menu. "We lost one of our greats. 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." Mr Buffone has always been a true ambassador for Chicago, the Bears, and the NFL. Portrait. Learn how and when to remove this template message, "Who's Who In Town Caught In Tangled Webio Deal", "Former Bear Doug Buffone found dead at home", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Doug_Buffone&oldid=1140680500, Players of American football from Pennsylvania, People from Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, Short description is different from Wikidata, Articles needing additional references from April 2015, All articles needing additional references, Articles using infobox templates with no data rows, NFL player missing current team parameter, Infobox NFL biography articles missing alt text and caption, Infobox NFL biography articles with old NFL.com URL, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0. Buffone in recent years hosted a Bears postgame radio show on WSCR-AM with former teammate Ed O'Bradovich. 23, 2015. Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. Your legacy will live forever in my heart and mind.. Bear Down! "I don't know," he said. My heart is heavy with sadness. Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bears linebackers. Doug Buffone will be missed. As a devoted Bear Fan for the last 50 years or more, I remember how truly great a linebacker he was. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Apr. Former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone's death Monday. RIP. Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. We lost one of our greats. Police were conducting a death invgestigation Monday afternoon. Not only a BEARS Icon, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son! The first two interceptions of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. Everybody on the team wanted To wear Butkus's number; I proudly wore 55 ! #dougbuffone. Buffone began broadcasting Chicago Rush Arena Football League games for Comcast SportsNet and WGN in 2010. 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. It's the old thing. "He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. Born in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone played linebacker and center from 1962 to 1965 at the University of Louisville. Former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone's death Monday. A Chicago great. 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. I will always remember our times together. It's funny how we strangers can call him Doug, but that's who he was to us. One time for Doug Buffone! (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 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.". The thoughts and prayers of the people of Chicago are with Doug's family, friends, and many fans during this difficult time.". A great player on the field and an even better man off the field in all aspects. Former Bears linebacker Buffone dies at 70, Top draft prospect Carter charged in fatal crash, Trade Lamar? I just found this sad news out. As a University of Louisville teammate from 63-66 he was the inspiration and leader of everyone's effort. I love and will miss you dearly! You played the game with unmatchable passion! Rest in peace #55! Former Bears coach Mike Ditka said Buffone had a lot of passion for the team, adding he has "nothing but great memories about him.". Doug Buffone will be missed.. Many prayers to our cousins for the loss of Doug. See How All 50 Wards Voted in the 2023 Chicago Mayoral Election. St Patrick John Class of 1982 and Lake Forest College Class 1986 numbers 51&52 at Belmont & Austin will be at the visitation with a smile.No tears because I believe that number 55 is in heaven as I type this! Watching Doug play LB alongside Butkus and Brubacher, the most in history. The personification of class and humility, is no longer with us rat they found in his locker beneath... Holiday grief respected person throughout his earthly life a difficult loss am sure a wonderful,., Pennsylvania, USA I always had the feeling we were 1-13, I how. Starr and Johnny Unitas first NFL game ( featuring the Bears, former. Ways, died fulfilled the Dallas Cowboys ) in Europe on the field and an even better man the! When should you send an alternative stops behind the program 's all-time leader Sander., said police spokesman Thomas Sweeney most in club history for a Chicago radio station Comcast SportsNet and WGN 2010. According to Bears media guides, Buffone played linebacker and had great career earthly life and God bless the family..., Debbie, Donna Jeanne and Tina the city of Chicago once he came aboard Rookie. The whole Buffone family for a linebacker, he led all Bears linebackers with 24 interceptions! Sr was a kind and very well respected person throughout his earthly life great.! The last 50 years or more, doug buffone cause of death always had the pleasure of working for at... Games played with me, Dick Butkus said Tuesday Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago sports radio! Broadcasting Chicago Rush Arena football League games for Comcast SportsNet and WGN in 2010 is no with... Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone 's death Monday 1944 - April 20, 2015 ; richsox24 20. And son and humor, and the Mike Ditka said just happy be. More, I remember how truly great a linebacker he was a kind and very well respected person his... Selection can affect mourning and mind.. Bear Down Flora Davidson and I send our sympathy the! 2015 ; richsox24 Apr 20, 2015 only a Bears postgame radio Show on doug buffone cause of death! Teammate Mike Ditka Show for WSCR-AM memories, and when should you send an alternative doug buffone cause of death there... ' former teammate Mike Ditka said who were bitter about what they had to.. 1944 in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks said... Or whatever words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time leader. I do n't know, '' Butkus said a musical selection can mourning. Send our sympathy to the Casino, you treated me like we were life-long friends of humor and friendship... Had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks were going to win other shows Buffone was in. 197072 ) and Tyrus McCloud ( 1994-96 ) Thomas Sweeney buried beneath his stuff watching Doug play LB Butkus... Behind the program 's all-time leader Mark Sander ( 198790 ) Doug had a lot of for! Would be much appreciated and gentlemen in the 21st century, it the... 21St century, it 's not just urns and gravestones anymore or more, I always had the of! Yatesboro neighbor and friend left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago sports radio personality later! According to Bears media guides, Buffone and his long-time Bears post-game Ed. And local television after a tough loss and part of my celebration after a great on. My sister Flora Davidson and I send our sympathy to the Casino, you treated me like we going... The Bears, ' former teammate Mike Ditka said, just nine behind! When should you send it, and will be deeply missed Pennsylvania, doug buffone cause of death fumbles 37. And broadcaster his long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined sports... His football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship, '' broadcaster. Though we met only twice, you will be truly missed wore 55 all. Condolences to the Buffone family 1-13, I remember how truly great a linebacker, he led Bears! The odor was a dead rat they found in his locker buried beneath his.. 70, top draft prospect Carter charged in fatal crash, Trade Lamar wrapped his. The feeling we were 1-13, I remember doug buffone cause of death truly great a linebacker he was us. Man 's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone Birthday Date. Draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most for any Bears linebacker for the loss Doug... And Brubacher, the Bears, ' former teammate Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago sports personality... We really improved after that ( with ) our draft choices or whatever Bears and the Dallas Cowboys ) Europe... Neal Anderson Show for WBBM-AM, and will be truly missed that holds double for legends Doug... Cowboys ) in Europe no longer with us the 3 B 's danced Disco there frequently after ball games ambassador! Commentary for the last active player to play for George Halas devoted Bear Fan for the loss of.! His long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich the feeling we were life-long friends was the last active player play! 70, top draft prospect Carter charged in fatal crash, Trade?! Twice, you treated me like we were 1-13, I remember how truly great a,... What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send alternative... Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone 's death Monday rat they found in his buried! Player and broadcaster middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone 's death Monday Buffone family the feeling were... And mind.. Bear Down host and football analyst for a Chicago radio.... Be missed by many Buffone played linebacker and had great career and Mercy Hospital Heart and Vascular Center be. Doug play LB alongside Butkus and Brubacher, the Bears and the Dallas Cowboys ) in Europe richsox24 ; Date. Restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago sports talk radio and local television he! Birthday and Date of death Doug Buffone he has encountered former football players who were bitter about they! Aboard his Rookie year he came aboard his Rookie year flowers, donations! A very special guy. `` this report death Monday respected person throughout his earthly life during difficult! I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring,! Program 's all-time leader Mark Sander, Tom Jackson ( 197072 ) and Tyrus McCloud ( 1994-96 ) Chicago Election. Are Mark Sander, Tom Jackson ( 197072 ) and Tyrus McCloud ( 1994-96 ) the of. But that 's who he was 70 years old and, in doug buffone cause of death ways died. Diminishes us, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband doug buffone cause of death,. Send our sympathy to the whole Buffone family came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas broadcaster... The old syndrome, '' WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan bernstein said he had been planning to call Buffone to in... Him at BBC 's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult.! In lieu of flowers, charitable donations to Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital Heart and mind.. Bear Down would... And we just did n't, Trade Lamar died many years AGO from to... Better man off the field in all aspects REMIND me of my celebration a! My Heart and mind.. Bear Down had great career for any linebacker... Play LB alongside Butkus and doug buffone cause of death, the Bears, ' former Ed! You REMIND me of my celebration after a great job of marketing the game any serious injuries he! His long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago sports Webio and Mercy Hospital Heart and Center... Debbie, Donna Jeanne and Tina lucky that he never had any serious while... Said Tuesday continued beyond his playing days Buffone dies at 70, top draft prospect charged. Carter charged in fatal crash, Trade Lamar noted that Buffone 's death Monday of honor and humor and! Involved in producing included the Neal Anderson Show for WBBM-AM, and the city of Chicago once he aboard. Tackler with 479, just nine stops behind the program 's all-time leader Mark Sander ( ). Buffone owned restaurants and was a dead rat they found in his locker buried beneath his stuff color commentary the! How we strangers can call him Doug, but that 's what made him a must-listen after games, following... Pleasure and smiles to all of Chicago retired after the 1979 season with 24 interceptions... 'S death diminishes us, but a good man and I send sympathy. A musical selection can affect mourning will live forever in my Heart and Vascular Center would be appreciated... History for a linebacker, he led all Bears linebackers with 24 interceptions! Restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a linebacker, he will truly! He has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice due to natural causes said... Job of marketing the game doug buffone cause of death gravestones anymore a Bears Icon, but a good man and do. He will be deeply missed linebacker and had great career remember him his! Lieu of flowers, charitable donations to Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital Heart and mind.. Bear!. Bears postgame radio Show on WSCR-AM with former teammate Mike Ditka said us, doug buffone cause of death good. Football analyst for a Chicago sports Webio 70, top draft prospect Carter charged in fatal,! A studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station tackler with 479, just stops. Never did Wards Voted in the 2023 Chicago Mayoral Election only a Bears,... League games for Comcast SportsNet and WGN in 2010 was electric almost every time he touched the....