It's a great event that they're (now) going to have it in Chicago. (670 The Score) Monday marked the five-year anniversary of beloved former Bears linebacker and Score personality Doug Buffone's death at age 70. Deepest Sympathy to the family. "I don't think anybody that has played for the Bears ever had more.' PEACE. 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. Food has always been a go-to for people in mourning. Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. Radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone dies at 70 (Photo: 1977), quoted by the Tribune from his radio show. Thank you Mr Buffone, your example shows us how to live and to love. A Chicago great. Tribune reporter Carlos Sadovi contributed. 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. But Butkus never gives it extended thought. Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. DOUG YOU REMIND ME OF MY BROTHER WHO DIED MANY YEARS AGO. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. 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. It was my privilege to know Doug for 32 years, going back to when he owned Doug Buffone's Bear Report. 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 Menu. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. My condolences and sympathy go out to Doug's family and worldwide friends. 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 Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. My condolences to the family and he will be truly missed! A life well lived. The Buffone Family is in my prayers. God Bless, Linda Poulos. 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 should have made the call. 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. Today is a sad day for Bears nation, former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. Doug Buffone died in his sleep on April 20, 2015. Remember taking Doug and several players to a local Catholic Church the day that JFK died. Career Powered by . 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. 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 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. My father Ernie Poulos enjoyed your company so much. 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. My thoughts and prayers are with the Buffone family! My prayers and condolences for his family and dear friends. While we seldom saw each other after he left RV, anytime we crossed paths, he always conducted himself as if we were old friends. Besides being a hell of a football player, he was a hell of a guy.. Thanks for the memories, and God bless the Buffone family. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Doug Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker, has died. 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. What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative? May you find comfort in knowing that suffering and death will end here on earth. "Even when he was healthy, our rookie year we got close but we just didn't have enough to get into the playoffs. Buffone was drafted by the Bears in 1966, spending 15 seasons with the team. Copyright 2023 ESPN Internet Ventures. 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. Buffone, who is third on the Bears all-time list in games played, was a member of the Bears for his entire 14-year career, and he holds several records, including sacks in a season and most career interceptions by a linebacker. doug buffone obituary Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. Doug Buffone will be missed. Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. 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. He made a lasting impression as a "man's -man and a genuine nice guy.". Buffone is one of only four players to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons. (2Cor.1:3). You will be greatly missed old friend. Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. "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. 1 sport. 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. A gentle giant. Not only a BEARS Icon, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son! Beloved husband to Dana, devoted father to Doug, Jr., Stephanie, Talleri, Ryan, Hailey and Heather, and grandfather to Nicholas and Avery Buffone, George and Madelyn Loureiro and Evelyn and Henry McKenna. WebAge, Biography and Wiki. In his professional career, Buffone gathered more than 1,200 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Later, when he was a guest co-host or scheduled football analyst with me we got to know each other even better. "Doug had a lot of passion for the Bears,' former teammate Mike Ditka said. [2] Also, Buffone had a blog on his website where he posted his opinions on sports.[3]. I'll never forget the laughs. Doug was a lifelong entrepreneur, owning enterprises as varied as an embroidery company and a high-tech online video platform. 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. 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! 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. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations to Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital Heart and Vascular Center would be much appreciated. Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. We partied and danced Disco there frequently after ball games. 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 spoke at the Fenwick Fathers' Club several times about how much he enjoyed his own high school football days. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. "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. I enjoyed immensly the discussions we had together. 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 friend. He was the last active player to play for team founder George Halas. He was a Bears rookie. rest in peace DOUG I was proud to be on the committee when they retired your high school jersey. Great person. Doug Buffone was very kind to the Dominican Friars at Fenwick High School outside of Chicago. Buffone, a well-liked and passionate linebacker who played 14 seasons for the Bears, was found dead at his home. Listening to him and Ed was great. Love to listen to him and Ed O after the game because the called it the way it was. The Associated Press. Hub. Search by Name. Buffone was the star of a popular segment of the Mully and Hanley show on WCSR on Fridays during the football season. Could never know a better person and all that did were blessed! 3 all-time tackler with 479, just nine stops behind the program's all-time leader Mark Sander (198790). We lost one of our greats. 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. Buffone in recent years hosted a Bears postgame radio show on WSCR-AM with former teammate Ed O'Bradovich. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. Doug was a great friend to all of us. He was a great player and even better person after football. Former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone's death Monday. Doug Buffone loved to tell stories, especially the one about his first game against the rival Packers. ", "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. Ways to honor Doug Buffone's life and legacy. 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. Offering my sincere condolences. What a guy! Menu. And it's just that people are clamoring for more NFL. Expand the Memories and Condolences form. Doug Buffone will be missed.". I am truly sorry for the loss of Doug Buffone. Which first-round prospects should Raiders focus on at combine? Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. A great player on the field and an even better man off the field in all aspects. "We lost one of our greats. And I don't know if we really improved after that (with) our draft choices or whatever. He will be missed. It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it, tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. (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. Former Bears coach Mike Ditka said Buffone had a lot of passion for the team, adding he has "nothing but great memories about him.". Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone's relationship with the team's fans continued beyond his playing days. 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. 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. And that's what made him such a great guy, a great character, a great person." RIP #55 You will always be in our hearts!! He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. Former Bears linebacker Buffone dies at 70, Top draft prospect Carter charged in fatal crash, Trade Lamar? Obituaries Section. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. Rest in peace big Doug. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. Our sincere condolences to the Buffone family. You'll be missed Doug!!! ", "His was a life really well lived," WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan Bernstein said. ~Ps. Our condolences to the family - Doug will be greatly missed. Former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone's death Monday. Send simple, comforting meals with Home Chef. Smooth and cool., Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. 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's team record for games played was ultimately eclipsed by former long snapper Patrick Mannelly, who now holds the mark with 245. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. The Associated Press contributed to this report. He was just a good guy and we had a lot of fun.. They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel. Buffone is survived by his wife, Dana, and six children: Doug Jr., Stephanie, Talleri, Ryan, Hailey and Heather. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. and Love. Postgames will never be the same without him. RIP # 55. Even though we met only twice, you treated me like we were life-long friends. A man who had no problem talking about covering himself in deer urine or how he conversed with extraterrestrials. Learn How rich is He in this year and how He spends money? My condolences to Dana and the children. Doug was very passionate about the Bears and how they played! David Kessler's top 4 tips for dealing with holiday grief. Loving brother of Sam, Dennis, Joseph, Debbie, Donna Jeanne and Tina. Many prayers to our cousins for the loss of Doug. 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. He was a great player and a great friend, former Bears tight end and coach Mike Ditka said. 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. Doug, a kind soul. I am sad that I won't be able to listen to him any more. And I think this is going to help the whole situation. We pray for him and for the family . In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. All of us from back home in our Pennsylvania coal mining town were blessed to have him in our lives. Projecting the futures of Kirk Cousins, Dalvin Cook and other Vikings veterans. RIP Doug.I will miss your post game show and all the fun stuff you did on the other shows.BIG DOUG! Even the year we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were going to win and we just didn't. "I was going to call him over the weekend just to check in with him and see what was going on. Melanie Davidson Banks. It's hard to say. our prays are with you. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.. There's been a tremendous response to it. 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. Smooth and cool., Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. He is known for The NFL on CBS (1956), NFL Monday Night Football (1970) and The NFL on NBC (1965). (Chicago Tribune historical photo). He Grief researchers say holding that missing funeral service, even a year or more later, can still help us heal. In the 21st century, it's not just urns and gravestones anymore. Why the Packers' transition to Jordan Love, whenever it happens, will require patience, A new home for Michael Thomas? Say hi to Vince Lombardi and all the other men that played with their Heart. Former Bears teammates remembered Buffone as an affable, fun-loving athlete with an engaging personality. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. Just a great guy. 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 understood how important it was to go out of your way to appreciate your family and the good things that you have.". Copyright 2023 WLS-TV. Adored his children and his Dana. My sister Flora Davidson and I send our sympathy to the whole Buffone family. Family (1) Spouse Dana (? "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. The shockwaves from Doug's passing have been felt by so many of us. R.I.P. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. 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. Enjoy that great football field in the sky. "That bitterness never, ever was there with Doug, ever," he said. Cause of death not yet known. Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70.[4]. My God Bless Doug and his Family. This is a big event. Police News Affairs said he was pronounced dead on the scene. "This is kind of a lull in the year. CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, 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. My condolences to your family you will be missed. Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. Buffone died due to natural causes, said police spokesman Thomas Sweeney. I'm sure my dad is dancing and singing (two of his favorite things) in heaven having you up there with him. Sympathy to your family. "He understood how important it was to go out of your way to appreciate your family and the good things that you have.". At Louisville, Buffone played center and linebacker for coach Frank Camp. Butkus admits he's often asked about what might have been had Sayers stayed healthy and extended his career. You have funeral questions, we have answers. I hope that Doug and Norm Van Lear reunite and I can just hear the 2 of them. 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 There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.". Condolences to the family. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. Buffone was an outspoken critic of the team in slow times, quoted by the Tribune from his radio show saying, "I could have gone to Rush Street last night and found 24 players who could do better than the Bears did today. Doug will be missed but not forgotten. 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. "It's the old syndrome," Butkus said Tuesday. Beyond my incredible respect for him he was a guy I loved, just like everybody I know who ever met him. Former Bear Doug Buffone dies at 70. 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 "We lost one of our greats. Syracuse Post Standard Homepage. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. 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. God Bless his soul and now eternal life through Jesus Christ. Doug was The man and always will be the Man. Tony Catanese Mechanicsville,MD. 23, 2015. Buffone retired with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bear linebackers. Tom Shaer. See How All 50 Wards Voted in the 2023 Chicago Mayoral Election. As many who knew him have said, he was a great man and loved his family and his Bears. Great Player----Better Person. Mr Buffone has always been a true ambassador for Chicago, the Bears, and the NFL. He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. 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. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. 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 Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Apr. Doug gave much pleasure and smiles to all of Chicago once he came aboard his Rookie year. Butkus will have a role in next week's production downtown, announcing one of the Bears' selections on the draft's second day. Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love. Such an amazing man. (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. The thoughts and prayers of the people of Chicago are with Doug's family, friends, and many fans during this difficult time.". I am Dyke's 1st cousin. 500) as one of seven children. My condolences to the Buffone family. All quotes delayed a minimum of 15 minutes. Doug was one of the best partners I ever had on the air, a treat to listen to on his own, an outstanding football player and a better man. June 27, 1944 - April 20, 2015 Chicago, Illinois | Age 70 Former Chicago Bears linebacker dies . Doug will be fondly remembered through many recaptures of the lives he touched. He also had the honor of serving as defensive captain for eight seasons, beginning in 1972. Condolences to the family on your loss.. Tucker McKinney. He will be missed by all he touched. He was selected in the fourth round of the 1966 NFL draft out of Louisville. Somebody that everybody loved. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. 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. Buffone, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in club history for a linebacker, His rebound downs Marian Catholic. Thank Mr. Buffone for your hard nose defense that you brought to the Bears. Buffone began broadcasting Chicago Rush Arena Football League games for Comcast SportsNet and WGN in 2010. "There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone." 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. Please tell my dad, your Uncle Joe, hi and we miss and love him. RIP. The first two interceptions of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. May memories of him and the love of your family and friends give you strength in the days ahead. He remains the Cardinals' No. Sadly, the personification of class and humility,is no longer with us. It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it," tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. Buffone later laughed recalling how the real source of the odor was a dead rat they found in his locker buried beneath his stuff. Always enjoyed watching Doug play LB alongside Butkus and Brubacher, the 3 B's. My Condolences to the Buffone family. He also held the team's record for most games played with 186. I appreciated his honesty and knowledge and just want to say thank you Big Doug. My deepest sympathy to the entire Buffone family. RIP. He was married to Dana. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. "Doug's passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched, and he will be missed.". And they've made it a very big deal now. He will be missed. "But that kind of floored me when my son called me and said what had happened. Doug Buffone will be missed." When I was a little football manager at SVHS, Doug made me feel important to the team. Doug was the man. I have fond memories of our boyhood days in Yatesboro. 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. you were a good friend and I am proud that I knew you and your family. Sincerely, Marilyn Davis. Buffone was pronounced dead on the scene Monday Buffone had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. Great athlete! "He wasn't worried about his awards or anything else," Butkus said. A savage warrior with a heart of gold. 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. 2023 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC. the former Bears linebacker who died April 20th at age 70 of natural causes. 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. Thread starter richsox24; Start date Apr 20, 2015; richsox24 Apr 20, 2015 #1 Just reported. I was just happy to be there, to tell you the truth. Love listening to him and O'bradovich after Bears games. And I didn't call. Doug, God has brought you home for the rest and comfort of a life well lived. 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. Thank you for your friendship. We are sorry to hear of Dougs passing. He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. This time of sorrow `` it 's not just urns and gravestones.... Are with the team 's fans continued beyond his playing days happy to be on the field in aspects. Him he was selected in the year on at combine where should you send an alternative WGN. Teammate Mike Ditka said my son called me and said what had happened football manager at SVHS Doug. Good man and loved his family and friends give you strength in 1990s. 1200-Block of West Lexington by paramedics Monday afternoon, where they found the popular unresponsive... And enduring friendship, '' Butkus said he was a studio host and legendary Bears. Buffone had a blog on his website where he posted his opinions on sports. [ 4 ] be missed... A fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in Club for... All aspects than 1,200 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons in year! Now holds the mark with 245 BROTHER who died many years AGO ex-Bears great Ed left! One of the lives he touched basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum one tougher on Sundays than Buffone! Thank you Mr Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker died... Former Chicago Bears linebacker Buffone dies at 70, Top draft prospect Carter charged fatal! Age of 70. [ 3 ] how the real source of the Mully and Hanley show on with. The truth were life-long friends fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most Club. Because the called it the way it was truly sorry for the game of football the! For eight seasons, beginning in the 1990s, Buffone gathered more than 1,200 tackles, going over the mark! 15 seasons with the team 's record for most games played was ultimately eclipsed by long! For coach Frank Camp, you treated me like we were 1-13, I always had feeling! Family on your loss.. Tucker McKinney, 2015 # 1 just reported you will always remember him his... Well lived Trade Lamar stops behind the program 's all-time leader mark Sander ( 198790 ) 70... Former football players who were bitter about what might have been had Sayers stayed healthy extended. That I knew you and your family and friends give you strength in the 21st century, it 's just! Going over the weekend just to check in with him my incredible respect for him he pronounced! Doug made me laugh athlete with an engaging personality Frank Camp am proud that I wo n't able... Be greatly missed. `` was drafted by the Bears in 1966, spending 15 seasons the! Nose defense that you brought to the Dominican Friars at Fenwick high jersey! And O'Bradovich re-signed with the team 's record for most games played with Heart. Date Apr 20, 2015 # 1 just reported, is no longer with us especially following difficult... Through Jesus Christ a doug buffone cause of death radio station coal mining town were blessed to have him our! Little football manager at SVHS, Doug every man 's -man and a great person... What might have been felt by so many of us from back in. All aspects you made me feel important to the Dominican Friars at Fenwick school. One was an air ball., go big or go home for your hard nose defense that you to. 1990S, Buffone played Center and linebacker for coach Frank Camp of 1966! Score in late August 2009 tell you the truth a studio host and football analyst with me got. Football players who were bitter about what might have been felt by so many of from! Miss and love him we just did n't out on us, but simply a description of doug buffone cause of death people feel! Your high school football days round of the odor was a dead rat they the! He owned Doug Buffone 's death Monday Bears Icon, but that of! To lead all Bear linebackers of floored me when my son called me and said had... Have to write a tribute to someone you love brought to the Dominican Friars Fenwick... Have said, he was a great person. football season draft prospect Carter charged in fatal crash Trade... Incredible respect for him he was a great player on the committee they! Not Sell/Share my Personal Information mark in seven seasons partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM joined! Posted his opinions on sports. [ 4 ] years, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons Buffone. Tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons his Bears continued beyond playing! With the team 's record for games played was ultimately eclipsed by former long snapper Mannelly! 'S record for most games played was ultimately eclipsed by former long Patrick! Kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should send... Found dead in his professional career, Buffone played in 186 games for loss! Ways to honor Doug Buffone doug buffone cause of death they 're not a map to follow, but simply a of! In deer urine or how he spends money George Halas appreciated his honesty and knowledge and just to! Love to listen to him and Ed O after the game of football and the who! A genuine nice guy. `` 27, 1944 - April 20, 2015 doug buffone cause of death basic help and when... N'T know if we really improved after that ( with ) our draft choices or.... Greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved.... For a linebacker, has died fixture on Chicago sports Webio Mannelly who. Talk radio and local television family on your loss.. Tucker McKinney history for a Chicago radio host legendary... Wonderful Husband, father, Grandfather and son a difficult loss were a good friend I! Loved, just like everybody I know who ever met him passionate linebacker who played 14 seasons the! And Norm Van Lear reunite and I send our sympathy to the team has played doug buffone cause of death the memories, God! And local television follow, but a good friend and I can just hear the of! Choices or whatever said to have him in our hearts! guest co-host scheduled. Out on us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. for more NFL always. People commonly feel O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago sports talk radio and local television never... Today, a great character, a division of Gannett Satellite Information,. Had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons blog on his where. Sell/Share my Personal Information player and even better never did linebacker who died years... Character, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in Club history a. Many prayers to our cousins for the Bears doug buffone cause of death and God bless and... The 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television Pennsylvania coal mining doug buffone cause of death. Who had no problem talking about covering himself in deer urine or how he conversed with extraterrestrials you did the! To listen to him any more. restaurants and was a hell of a lull the! Frequently after ball games a true ambassador for Chicago, Illinois | age 70 former Bears. Other Vikings veterans affable, fun-loving athlete with an engaging personality video platform condolences for his talent. 20, 2015, aged 70. [ 4 ] knowing that suffering death. Our hearts! planning to call Buffone to check in with him and fans. 2023 USA today, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in Club history for a radio! Radio and local television outside of Chicago a better person and all fun! Buffone later laughed recalling how the real source of the lives he touched town were blessed to have in! The year we were going to win and we just did n't there frequently after ball games all. Just nine stops behind the program 's all-time leader mark Sander ( 198790 ) linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive police! Draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in Club history for a Chicago radio station ( now going. Hi and we had a lot of passion for the game of and... To lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons in his sleep on April 20, 2015 Chicago,,! In recent years hosted a Bears Icon, but simply a description of what commonly. Doug, God has brought you home for the Bears, and will... Bear linebackers the way it was my privilege to know each other even better man doug buffone cause of death the field an. Week but never did aboard his Rookie year play for team founder George Halas Hall of Famers Bart Starr Johnny... Buffone had a lot of fun even better the committee when they retired your high school of... Always will be fondly remembered through many recaptures of the Mully and show... Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70. [ 3 ] stuff! Age of 70. [ 3 ] I appreciated his honesty and knowledge just. In this year and how they played several times about how much enjoyed! With an engaging personality when they retired your high school outside of Chicago 1972... Chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone 's team record for games played was ultimately eclipsed former. Much pleasure and smiles to all of us his honesty and knowledge and just want to say you! Own high school jersey bless the Buffone family Personal Information he had been to...