He will be missed. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. When you met Doug Buffone you fell in love with him, and that's how we feel.. It's the old thing. Postgames will never be the same without him. Discover Doug Buffone's Biography, Age, Height, Physical Stats, Dating/Affairs, Family and career updates. "He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. My father Ernie Poulos enjoyed your company so much. Even though we met only twice, you treated me like we were life-long friends. Could the Cowboys look at a running back in first round again? 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. Buffone is survived by his wife, Dana, and six children: Doug Jr., Stephanie, Talleri, Ryan, Hailey and Heather. Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. A native of Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears in 1966 out of Louisville. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. My sister Flora Davidson and I send our sympathy to the whole Buffone family. He was kind, he was real, he was sincere, he will be truly missed by all. WebCompare Doug Buffone to . Very sorry for your loss Doug will be missed by friends,family and the sports world my heart goes out to his family. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. Buffone and his family resided in Chicago, and he was heavily involved in Chicago sports and broadcasting. Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70. He My God Bless Doug and his Family. ESPN'sJeff Dickerson andThe Associated Press contributed to this report. "Doug's passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched, and he will be missed.". Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. 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. Web70 Recently Passed Away Celebrities and Famous People. As a University of Louisville teammate from 63-66 he was the inspiration and leader of everyone's effort. 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. "He was a very special guy.". Buffone, a well-liked and passionate linebacker who played 14 seasons for the Bears, was found dead at his home. "People talk about all that. A great Bear, but a better person. Tribune reporter Carlos Sadovi contributed. May memories of him and the love of your family and friends give you strength in the days ahead. He was also the last active Bears player who played for the team with George Halas as the head coach. Not only a BEARS Icon, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son! "We lost one of our greats. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. For some people, the best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: a big party. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. Doug has already entered the gates of Heaven. 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 Cause of death not yet known. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Doug Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker, has died. Choice is: Ex: Ray Lewis, Junior Seau. 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. God Bless, Linda Poulos. Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. "We are terribly saddened to hear of Doug's passing," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. The Associated Press. Doug Buffone Birthday and Date of Death Doug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015. Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70.[4]. "I was going to call him over the weekend just to check in with him and see what was going on. Besides being a hell of a football player, he was a hell of a guy.. Doug will be missed but not forgotten. RIP Doug Buffone. Doug, God has brought you home for the rest and comfort of a life well lived. 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. "His was a life really well lived," WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan Bernstein said. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. Great player, sportscaster and Chicagoan. The others are Mark Sander, Tom Jackson (197072) and Tyrus McCloud (1994-96). RIP #55 You will always be in our hearts!! 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. You nick named me "sugar bear" and I accepted it. And it's just that people are clamoring for more NFL. It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it," tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. And that's what made him such a great guy, a great character, a great person." Our prayers go out to his wife, Dana, and his children. Dougs passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched and he will be missed. Adored his children and his Dana. My condolences to Dana and the children. "He was a very special guy.". (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. [1] Buffone and O'Bradovich re-signed with the Score in late August 2009. Rest in peace #55! My condolence to the Buffone Family> I had the pleasure of watching him play and then listening to him on the radio. I want to extend my warm wishes to Doug's family for comfort and hope his love will keep you all forever. Former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone's death Monday. Hope to see you in Heaven some day. My Condolences to the Buffone family. 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. DOUG YOU REMIND ME OF MY BROTHER WHO DIED MANY YEARS AGO. Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. Say hi to Vince Lombardi and all the other men that played with their Heart. 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. Butkus will have a role in next week's production downtown, announcing one of the Bears' selections on the draft's second day. The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards. Just a great guy. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. "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. Doug was a lifelong entrepreneur, owning enterprises as varied as an embroidery company and a high-tech online video platform. Many prayers to our cousins for the loss of Doug. Today is a sad day for Bears nation, former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. It's a great event that they're (now) going to have it in Chicago. I appreciated his honesty and knowledge and just want to say thank you Big Doug. Thanks doug. From the sidelines of the Chicago Bears to the Casino, you will be greatly missed. He had like bird legs but a developed upper body. "This is kind of a lull in the year. And I didn't call. Syracuse Post Standard Homepage. GOD Bless you all. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. I will always remember our times together. Everybody on the team wanted To wear Butkus's number; I proudly wore 55 ! In May 2009, Buffone and his long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago Sports Webio. Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Apr. What a guy! As I read all the kind words about him, I how true they are. Offering my sincere condolences. May god bless the buffone family. He also held the team's record for most games played with 186. Former Bear Doug Buffone dies at 70. A savage warrior with a heart of gold. June 27, 1944 - April 20, 2015 Chicago, Illinois | Age 70 Former Chicago Bears linebacker dies . "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. Death of Doug Buffone. 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. Tony Catanese Mechanicsville,MD. Buffone, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in club history for a linebacker, 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. He was 70. 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. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. RIP # 55. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. I was fortunate enough to have Doug as a mentor, teammate, & friend at the University of Louisville. with funeral mass to follow at 6 pm. I'll never forget the laughs. Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love. Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. The shockwaves from Doug's passing have been felt by so many of us. 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. If youre in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist. Great athlete! The pride Doug brought to the community in which he grew up could never be measured. He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. and Love. Condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. RIP. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. (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. At the time of his retirement, Buffone was the Bears' all-time leader in games played with 186. Rest in peace big Doug. Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. 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. You will always be an inspiration. Why the Packers' transition to Jordan Love, whenever it happens, will require patience, A new home for Michael Thomas? 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. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. All rights reserved. I am truly sorry for the loss of Doug Buffone. I am sad that I won't be able to listen to him any more. 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. "I don't know," he said. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. Former Bears coach Mike Ditka said Buffone had a lot of passion for the team, adding he has "nothing but great memories about him.". Thank Mr. Buffone for your hard nose defense that you brought to the Bears. Doug will be fondly remembered through many recaptures of the lives he touched. Mr Buffone has always been a true ambassador for Chicago, the Bears, and the NFL. Buffone is one of only four players to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons. See How All 50 Wards Voted in the 2023 Chicago Mayoral Election. Doug played, was all about head trauma. Condolences to the family. RIP Doug.I will miss your post game show and all the fun stuff you did on the other shows.BIG DOUG! Listening to him and Ed was great. Doug Buffone died in his sleep on April 20, 2015. 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; Sadly, the personification of class and humility,is no longer with us. Love listening to him and O'bradovich after Bears games. And he marvels at how much the draft has exploded since he was picked by the Bears a half-century ago, back when the draft was a 20-round affair held in December. He was a Bears rookie. "He wasn't worried about his awards or anything else," Butkus said. Buffone was pronounced dead on the scene Monday So admired, and deservedly so. The man was later identified as Buffone, who played 14 seasons for the Bears. 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. He remains the Cardinals' No. No cause of death was released. Submit an Obituary. He played the part of "Big Doug", a bookie and collector, noted for his humour in character as "Big Doug". 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. He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. (Chicago Tribune historical photo). He played the game with passion and conviction. 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. 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. Police were called to Buffones Chicago home on Monday afternoon, where he was found unresponsive in bed. Hub. He will be 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. 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. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation,"Brian Urlacher tweeted. RIP friend. (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. 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. thank you Doug for making the Bears watchable , your news radio great God Bless rest in peace >>>AMEN. 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. 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'. Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. We are sorry to hear of Dougs passing. #dougbuffone. 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. While we seldom saw each other after he left RV, anytime we crossed paths, he always conducted himself as if we were old friends. Which first-round prospects should Raiders focus on at combine? A gentle giant. We are terribly saddened to hear of Dougs passing, Bears Chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. The first two interceptions of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. My deepest sympathy to the entire Buffone family. Buffone and his family resided in Chicago, and he was heavily involved in Chicago sports and broadcasting. our prays are with you. Doug and OB were my therapy after a tough loss and part of my celebration after a great win. A Chicago great. I knew doug throughout the 70,s and there after our paths crossed on occasion,and each time he would greet you with a BIG buffone smile! In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. Even the year we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were going to win and we just didn't. It was an exhibition game in 1966. 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. 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. ", Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bears linebackers. His earlier misses? Enjoy that great football field in the sky. Doug Buffone was very kind to the Dominican Friars at Fenwick High School outside of Chicago. Family (1) Spouse Dana (? ~Ps. This is a big event. Javascript is required for the selection of a player. 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 was one of the most dependable players in franchise history and perhaps its most beloved. "He was a very special guy. Tom Shaer. The thoughts and prayers of the people of Chicago are with Doug's family, friends, and many fans during this difficult time.". 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. God Bless his soul and now eternal life through Jesus Christ. We kept saying, 'This is practice. Sympathy to your family. Buffone's company Digital One is the creator of ClickStreamTV, an online video platform product that was designed for small to medium-sized businesses. Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions, the most for any Bears linebacker. Former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone's death Monday. Butkus admits he's often asked about what might have been had Sayers stayed healthy and extended his career. ", "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. In a 14-year NFL career, Buffone's rugged play and indomitable attitude represented the spirit of the Bears and the city of Chicago. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone dies at 70 (Photo: 1977), quoted by the Tribune from his radio show. Our condolences to the family - Doug will be greatly missed. you were a good friend and I am proud that I knew you and your family. 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 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. I remember your night club BBC off Rush Street. I hope that Doug and Norm Van Lear reunite and I can just hear the 2 of them. "There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone." 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. RIP Our prayers to your family! Bear Down. Doug Buffone will be missed." WebAge, Biography and Wiki. And he proved it each week over his 14-year career, a tenure record he shared with another great, Bill George, for 33 seasons. In the 21st century, it's not just urns and gravestones anymore. Dougie, you were a great teammate." 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. CHICAGO (AP) Former Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a Buffone started a record 186 games as a Bear, during which time he recorded more than 1,200 tackles and 24 interceptions. He was a great player and even better person after football. I know that no one person that played the game of football loved it more than Doug did. "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. A friend for 44 years. Portrait. Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. 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. Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone's relationship with the team's fans continued beyond his playing days. Doug Sr was a man of honor and humor, and will be missed by many. The Buffone Family is in my prayers. 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. Shamrock John. Doug Buffone will be missed.". 37:10. He was so proud of you and loved you like a son. And they've made it a very big deal now. Today is a sad day for Bears nation. He is known for The NFL on CBS (1956), NFL Monday Night Football (1970) and The NFL on NBC (1965). Doug was my football hero. And I think this is going to help the whole situation. Great Player----Better Person. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. You have funeral questions, we have answers. Syracuse Post Standard. He will not soon be forgotten.I hope the promise at Isaiah 65:20 will bring comfort to the Buffone family. I will be 60 years old this year and have been a Bears season ticket holder since 1980. Ways to honor Doug Buffone's life and legacy. Family in this time Doug did a son ways to honor Doug was... Guy.. Doug will be missed by all proud that I knew you and loved you like a.. To you made me laugh deal now teammate from 63-66 he was a guy... Be measured terribly saddened to hear of Doug 's passion for the of. Man and I can just hear the 2 of them Icon, but a good friend and I it. Died in his sleep on April 20, 2015 and just want to extend my warm wishes to 's... 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