Buffone's 14 seasons in Chicago are tied for second most in club history. Later, when he was a guest co-host or scheduled football analyst with me we got to know each other even better. He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. I am sad that I won't be able to listen to him any more. Deepest Sympathy to the family. Even the year we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were going to win and we just didn't. You have funeral questions, we have answers. 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 Buffone played 14 seasons for the Bears tied for second most in franchise history making 1,257 tackles and surpassing the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. A native of Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears. We are praying for you and family. Doug was an excellent linebacker and had great career. "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. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. Gone but never forgotten. All quotes delayed a minimum of 15 minutes. CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, All of us from back home in our Pennsylvania coal mining town were blessed to have him in our lives. "But that kind of floored me when my son called me and said what had happened. At the time of his retirement, Buffone was the Bears' all-time leader in games played with 186. Chicago and bear fans around the world will miss you. You played the game with unmatchable passion! Buffone played collegiate football for Louisville. On "The Score", Buffone also co-hosted shows with Mike North (The Wise Guys) and Norm Van Lier (The Bear and The Bull) as well as other hosts. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. Could never know a better person and all that did were blessed! His rebound downs Marian Catholic. [1] Buffone and O'Bradovich re-signed with the Score in late August 2009. Doug Buffone was a terrific person, he taught me tons about football and about life. Buffone is survived by his wife, Dana, and six children: Doug Jr., Stephanie, Talleri, Ryan, Hailey and Heather. We kept saying, 'This is practice. 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? ", "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. Condolences to the family on your loss.. Tucker McKinney. Thank You Doug , well done indeed ! I should have made the call. Loving brother of Sam, Dennis, Joseph, Debbie, Donna Jeanne and Tina. My thoughts and prayers are with the Buffone family! 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.". CHICAGO (AP) Former Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a 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. "He wasn't worried about his awards or anything else," Butkus said. to laugh at yourself. "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. In addition to the 24 interceptions, Buffone had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. However, in June 2009, the founder of Chicago Sports Webio was charged with operating a Ponzi scheme, and the site was shut down. WebDoug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, USA. 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 heart is heavy with sadness. Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love. My deepest sympathy to the entire Buffone family. Our prayers go out to his wife, Dana, and his children. - 20 April 2015) (his death) (2 children) Trivia (1) And that's what made him such a great guy, a great character, a great person." The first time he came, as a Bear ,to play New Orleans, where I was an engineer at Chevron, he brought 4 of his teammates over to eat with me and my wife and for years that's all the neighbor's could talk about. "There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone." 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. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Doug Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker, has died. So admired, and deservedly so. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. Reporting by Steve Ginsburg in Washington; Editing by Peter Cooney. 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. Condolences to the family. 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. My sister Flora Davidson and I send our sympathy to the whole Buffone family. [2] Also, Buffone had a blog on his website where he posted his opinions on sports.[3]. 2 Alabama mounts massive comeback amid ejections to beat Auburn, claim SEC title, Ravens GM says he's 'optimistic' team can get a deal done with QB Lamar Jackson, Aaron Rodgers offers vague update on his NFL future: 'All the answers are right inside me'. Can the Lions fix their defense? When I was a little football manager at SVHS, Doug made me feel important to the team. Doug, a kind soul. Not only a BEARS Icon, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son! Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. At Louisville, Buffone played center and linebacker for coach Frank Camp. Yet Buffones death was also untimely, unexpected and filled with another kind of sadness. (Reporting by Steve Ginsburg in Washington; Editing by Peter Cooney), The Rush: Suns Kevin Durant dazzles in his debut against the Hornets, Sexual assault lawsuit against Jerry Jones revived after appeal, likely headed for trial, No. "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. I was fortunate enough to have Doug as a mentor, teammate, & friend at the University of Louisville. Burlington Centrals Nicholas Gouriotis figures out the difference. He died on April 20, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. I will always remember our times together. Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. Burlington Centrals Nicholas Gouriotis figures out the difference. 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. Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70. Love for the game - good citizen - living life with a passion - Let the person who is perfect in life - please stand - Only God is perfect; Mr. Buffone you caught the football and carried it for a touchdown to the gates of Heaven. "That bitterness never, ever was there with Doug, ever," he said. "You didn't get the exposure like you do today," Butkus said. Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. (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 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. More in Sports Obituary Read. Your legacy will live forever in my heart and mind.. Bear Down! Buffone was pronounced dead on the scene Monday Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. A man who had no problem talking about covering himself in deer urine or how he conversed with extraterrestrials. 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. See here for a complete list of exchanges and delays. Sympathy to your family. Doug played, was all about head trauma. Dougie, you were a great teammate." Ways to honor Doug Buffone's life and legacy. 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. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Such an amazing man. I was just happy to be there, to tell you the truth. Syracuse Post Standard Homepage. I never met the man, but through the radio I felt like I got to know Doug like an uncle. Following his collegiate career, Buffone was selected by the Chicago Bears in the fourth round of the 1966 NFL Draft and the eighth round of the American Football League Draft by the San Diego Chargers. Career Powered by . 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. Former Bears coach Mike Ditka said Buffone had a lot of passion for the team, adding he has "nothing but great memories about him.". 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 My condolences to the family and he will be truly missed! A gentle giant. 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. 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. "It's the old syndrome," Butkus said Tuesday. Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you. 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. Even though we met only twice, you treated me like we were life-long friends. (670 The Score) Monday marked the five-year anniversary of beloved former Bears linebacker and Score personality Doug Buffone's death at age 70. Of course, it's the No. Somebody that everybody loved. It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it," tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. Other shows Buffone was involved in producing included The Neal Anderson Show for WBBM-AM, and The Mike Ditka Show for WSCR-AM. Both players eventually found their way into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Very sorry for your loss Doug will be missed by friends,family and the sports world my heart goes out to his family. I'm going to miss BIG DOUG! 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. He was a fourth-round draft pick. Number 55 is officially retired.Rest in peace,Doug. "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. 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's hard to say. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Buffone was drafted by the Bears in 1966, spending 15 seasons with the team. Condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. Doug has already entered the gates of Heaven. We partied and danced Disco there frequently after ball games. A great player on the field and an even better man off the field in all aspects. A native of Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears in 1966 out of Louisville. When you met Doug Buffone you fell in love with him, and that's how we feel.. Doug Buffone died in his sleep on April 20, 2015. Please tell my dad, your Uncle Joe, hi and we miss and love him. My prayers and condolences for his family and dear friends. We pray for him and for the family . He will be missed. From the sidelines of the Chicago Bears to the Casino, you will be greatly 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. Police say Buffone was found dead in his University Village home in the 1200-block of West Lexington by paramedics Monday afternoon. It was my privilege to know Doug for 32 years, going back to when he owned Doug Buffone's Bear Report. He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. 37:10. He will be missed by all he touched. "He understood how important it was to go out of your way to appreciate your family and the good things that you have.". thank you Doug for making the Bears watchable , your news radio great God Bless rest in peace >>>AMEN. Buffone began broadcasting Chicago Rush Arena Football League games for Comcast SportsNet and WGN in 2010. It was an exhibition game in 1966. (Chicago Tribune historical photo). "He understood how important it was to go out of your way to appreciate your family and the good things that you have.". All Rights Reserved. Dana and family, be assured of my prayers. David Kessler's top 4 tips for dealing with holiday grief. Doug Buffone will be missed." As many who knew him have said, he was a great man and loved his family and his Bears. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations to Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital Heart and Vascular Center would be much appreciated. Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. Hope to see you in Heaven some day. 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. "We lost one of our greats. A true friend. "I was going to call him over the weekend just to check in with him and see what was going on. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. All rights reserved. Thanks Doug for all you did as a player and broadcaster. Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bears linebackers. A visitation service for Buffone will be held at Old St. Pat's Church on Friday from 2-6 p.m. A funeral service will follow. Rest in peace big Doug. May the God of all comfort be with you all. A friend for 44 years. We lost one of our greats. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. He made a difference in a good-way in a lot of people lives. I just found this sad news out. Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. 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. Remember taking Doug and several players to a local Catholic Church the day that JFK died. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. Could the Cowboys look at a running back in first round again? Everybody on the team wanted To wear Butkus's number; I proudly wore 55 ! and Love. "It's the Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. "But the meek will possess the earth, And they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace." Radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone dies at 70 (Photo: 1977), quoted by the Tribune from his radio show. The (NFL) has just done a great job of marketing the game. Gonna miss him. Our condolences to the family - Doug will be greatly missed. "Butkus remembered Buffone as a hard-working teammate who spent his 14 seasons with the Bears invested in the team rather than chasing his own personal glory. 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. Doug will be missed but not forgotten. As I read all the kind words about him, I how true they are. 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, wa See How All 50 Wards Voted in the 2023 Chicago Mayoral Election. Doug was one of the most dependable players in franchise history and perhaps its most beloved. 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 (2Cor.1:3). ", Copyright 2023 NBCUniversal Media, LLC. 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. 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." Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. ESPN's Jeff Dickerson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone's relationship with the team's fans continued beyond his playing days. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.. ", Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. My condolences and sympathy go out to Doug's family and worldwide friends. He will be missed. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. So sad to lose a boyhood friend. WebAge, Biography and Wiki. Obituaries Section. Born in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone played linebacker and center from 1962 to 1965 at the University of Louisville. You nick named me "sugar bear" and I accepted it.

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