The first two pickoffs of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. Which first-round prospects should Raiders focus on at combine? "I don't think anybody that has played for the Bears ever had more.' Great athlete! Buffone was drafted by the Bears in 1966, spending 15 seasons with the team. - 20 April 2015) (his death) (2 children) Trivia (1) Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. Buffone, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in club history for a linebacker, You will be greatly missed old friend. A great Bear, but a better person. I will be 60 years old this year and have been a Bears season ticket holder since 1980. My heart is heavy with sadness. "He was a very special guy.". Burlington Centrals Nicholas Gouriotis figures out the difference. 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. RIP friend. Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. 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. The first two interceptions of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. From the sidelines of the Chicago Bears to the Casino, you will be greatly missed. "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 Buffone will be missed.. May memories of him and the love of your family and friends give you strength in the days ahead. "That bitterness never, ever was there with Doug, ever," he said. A native of Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears in 1966 out of Louisville. We lost one of our greats. Cause of death not yet known. Such an amazing man. "Sending our heartfelt condolences to family & friends of ex-#Bears LB Doug Buffone, who has passed away at age 70,"the Chicago Bears tweeted. Melanie Davidson Banks. My condolences to the Buffone family. He is known for The NFL on CBS (1956), NFL Monday Night Football (1970) and The NFL on NBC (1965). Former Bear Doug Buffone dies at 70. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. He will be deeply missed. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. My condolences to Dana and the children. Hub. 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; RIP. Unless you are experienced as an estate executor, you probably should hire an attorney. 37:10. 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. Former Bears running back Ronnie Bull recalled the challenge of having to practice against the likes of Buffone, O'Bradovich and Butkus. You made us all so proud to be from Shannock Valley High School. To me, I loved the game and it was all about playing football and to get drafted and lo and behold play for your home city and have a guy like (defensive end Ed) O'Bradovich that I used to watch at Illiinois and Gale. 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 retired with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bear linebackers. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70.Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. Doug Buffone was very kind to the Dominican Friars at Fenwick High School outside of Chicago. God Bless his soul and now eternal life through Jesus Christ. 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. However, in June 2009, the founder of Chicago Sports Webio was charged with operating a Ponzi scheme, and the site was shut down. I never heard him gripe, Butkus said. "But that kind of floored me when my son called me and said what had happened. [1] Buffone and O'Bradovich re-signed with the Score in late August 2009. to laugh at yourself. Love to listen to him and Ed O after the game because the called it the way it was. Buffone's team record for games played was ultimately eclipsed by former long snapper Patrick Mannelly, who now holds the mark with 245. "We lost one of our greats. The pride Doug brought to the community in which he grew up could never be measured. Condolences to the family on your loss.. Tucker McKinney. (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. Portrait. My prayers and condolences for his family and dear friends. 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. I remember spending a day with you and your twins at Kim Baker's pool and recall the love you have for your familywhich will remain strong in your heart. Sadly, the personification of class and humility,is no longer with us. you were a good friend and I am proud that I knew you and your family. "He was a very special guy.". RIP Our prayers to your family! Listening to him and Ed was great. A friend for 44 years. ", "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. Submit an Obituary. 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 partied and danced Disco there frequently after ball games. And I didn't call. Hope to see you in Heaven some day. Over the years I got to know not only the football player, but the Man. Web70 Recently Passed Away Celebrities and Famous People. He was a kind and very well respected person throughout his earthly life. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. He was a great player and a great friend, former Bears tight end and coach Mike Ditka said. 500) as one of seven children. 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. It's hard to say. 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. "There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone." Buffone started a record 186 games as a Bear, during which time he recorded more than 1,200 tackles and 24 interceptions. He made a difference in a good-way in a lot of people lives. Tony Catanese Mechanicsville,MD. Doug was an excellent linebacker and had great career. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. It's surprising how much a musical selection can affect mourning. 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. "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. We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time. Doug has already entered the gates of Heaven. According to Bears media guides, Buffone also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. Thanks Doug for all you did as a player and broadcaster. My father Ernie Poulos enjoyed your company so much. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. And they've made it a very big deal now. By the time Buffone wrapped up his brilliant career, he led all Bears linebackers with 24 career interceptions. My God Bless Doug and his Family. (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 coroner's office Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. "It's the old syndrome," Butkus said Tuesday. Our sincere condolences to the Buffone family. 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 Why the Packers' transition to Jordan Love, whenever it happens, will require patience, A new home for Michael Thomas? In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. 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. You will always be an inspiration. He also held the team's record for most games played with 186. 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. Mr Buffone has always been a true ambassador for Chicago, the Bears, and the NFL. Both players eventually found their way into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Burlington Centrals Nicholas Gouriotis figures out the difference. "I don't know," he said. Syracuse Post Standard. the former Bears linebacker who died While we seldom saw each other after he left RV, anytime we crossed paths, he always conducted himself as if we were old friends. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. He was 70. It's a great event that they're (now) going to have it in Chicago. Number 55 is officially retired.Rest in peace,Doug. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. Jr.(Harry) Paul, Bill, John and Doug were always together. I know that no one person that played the game of football loved it more than Doug did. RIP Doug.I will miss your post game show and all the fun stuff you did on the other shows.BIG DOUG! He was a great player and even better person after football. Always enjoyed watching Doug play LB alongside Butkus and Brubacher, the 3 B's. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. All the accolades he received, he deserved, and then some. "He wasn't worried about his awards or anything else," Butkus said. All rights reserved. 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. He also had the honor of serving as defensive captain for eight seasons, beginning in 1972. We have fond memories of watching him play at Shannock.God's Peace be with you. He was very cordial and friendly to the people attending the luncheon and was truly interested in our thoughts about the Bears and life in general. All quotes delayed a minimum of 15 minutes. For some people, the best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: a big party. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. Giving to charity is a meaningful way to honor someone who has died. Police say Buffone was found dead in his University Village home in the 1200-block of West Lexington by paramedics Monday afternoon. Tribune reporter Carlos Sadovi contributed. 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. "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. Death of Doug Buffone. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. Everybody on the team wanted To wear Butkus's number; I proudly wore 55 ! 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. Buffone was pronounced dead on the scene Monday Menu. 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? 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 Great person. Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you. Former Bears linebacker Buffone dies at 70, Top draft prospect Carter charged in fatal crash, Trade Lamar? At Louisville, Buffone played center and linebacker for coach Frank Camp. As many who knew him have said, he was a great man and loved his family and his Bears. Radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone dies at 70 (Photo: 1977), quoted by the Tribune from his radio show. "One time for Doug Buffone! I hope that Doug and Norm Van Lear reunite and I can just hear the 2 of them. See How All 50 Wards Voted in the 2023 Chicago Mayoral Election. To plant trees in memory, please visit the. Enjoy heaven with Sweetness, Gale, and Papa Bear. WebAge, Biography and Wiki. It seemed to me he was lucky that he never had any serious injuries while he played with me, Dick Butkus said. Buffone had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. (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. God bless him. He will be missed. 3 all-time tackler with 479, just nine stops behind the program's all-time leader Mark Sander (198790). May you find comfort in knowing that suffering and death will end here on earth. "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. Buffone and his family resided in Chicago, and he was heavily involved in Chicago sports and broadcasting. Buffones team record for games played was ultimately eclipsed by former long snapper Patrick Mannelly, who now holds the mark with 245. A savage warrior with a heart of gold. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.". My condolences and sympathy go out to Doug's family and worldwide friends. "His was a life really well lived," WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan Bernstein said. Send simple, comforting meals with Home Chef. Grief researchers say holding that missing funeral service, even a year or more later, can still help us heal. Buffone is survived by his wife, Dana, and six children: Doug Jr., Stephanie, Talleri, Ryan, Hailey and Heather. Deepest Sympathy to the family. Gone but never forgotten. 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. If youre in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist. Can the Lions fix their defense? In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. Career Powered by . 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. Beyond my incredible respect for him he was a guy I loved, just like everybody I know who ever met him. "He understood how important it was to go out of your way to appreciate your family and the good things that you have.". Doug was the epitome of the All American as a player and gentlemen. Thank Mr. Buffone for your hard nose defense that you brought to the Bears. 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. Condolences to the family. Doug was my football hero. 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 . 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. Doug Buffone will be missed. ESPN'sJeff Dickerson andThe Associated Press contributed to this report. I was a little girl, during the first half of his football career, he always treated me like I was special when I would see him or go to one of his games. Doug was one of the most dependable players in franchise history and perhaps its most beloved. Other shows Buffone was involved in producing included The Neal Anderson Show for WBBM-AM, and The Mike Ditka Show for WSCR-AM. A gentle giant. My thoughts and prayers are with Dana and the entire family! 1 sport. And every year we went to training camp I thought we were going to win. He was also the last active Bears player who played for the team with George Halas as the head coach. Enjoy that great football field in the sky. "Doug's passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched, and he will be missed.". They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel. Sincerely, Marilyn Davis. Doug gave much pleasure and smiles to all of Chicago once he came aboard his Rookie year. A native of Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears. 2023 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC. Gonna miss him. He channeled his passion for the team and sport into a successful career as a Chicago sports radio personality. His earlier misses? Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70.[4]. 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. 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. Cause of death not yet known. 23, 2015. We kept saying, 'This is practice. 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 Visitation on Friday at Old St. Patrick's Church, 700 W. Adams, Friday at 2 pm. 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. 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. Doug will be missed but not forgotten. 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. Doug Buffone will be missed.". Doug and OB were my therapy after a tough loss and part of my celebration after a great win. And it's just that people are clamoring for more NFL. He led Louisville in tackles three straight years and remains third on the all-time career list for tackles made with 479. 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. For tackles made with 479 70. [ 4 ] deserved, and Bear. 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