Great Player----Better Person. A Chicago great. You nick named me "sugar bear" and I accepted it. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. I remember your night club BBC off Rush Street. Doug Buffone (Douglas John Buffone) was born on 27 June, 1944 in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, USA, is an Actor. 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. Beyond my incredible respect for him he was a guy I loved, just like everybody I know who ever met him. We partied and danced Disco there frequently after ball games. By the time Buffone wrapped up his brilliant career, he led all Bears linebackers with 24 career interceptions. 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. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. He remains the Cardinals' No. You taught me that it's o.k. All the accolades he received, he deserved, and then some. 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. The pride Doug brought to the community in which he grew up could never be measured. I met Buz at the Bears training camp in Rensselaer, Indiana in 1969, through his teammate and my best friend, Willie Holman. "We lost one of our greats. Heartfelt sympathy to the Buffone family from an old Yatesboro neighbor and friend. Other shows Buffone was involved in producing included The Neal Anderson Show for WBBM-AM, and The Mike Ditka Show for WSCR-AM. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. I just found this sad news out. Player News. I love and will miss you dearly! He died on April 20, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. 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. "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. But Butkus never gives it extended thought. Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. The first two interceptions of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. Many believe Buffones accomplishments on the field were overshadowed because he played next to a Hall of Fame teammate in Butkus. 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. Portrait. (CBS) Legendary Chicago Bear and 670 The Score Bears postgame co-host Doug Buffone has died at 70. ~Ps. Doug Buffone will be missed." ", Copyright 2023 NBCUniversal Media, LLC. It's funny how we strangers can call him Doug, but that's who he was to us. 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. Former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone's death Monday. our prays are with you. Death of Doug Buffone. "One time for Doug Buffone! 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. Discover Doug Buffone's Biography, Age, Height, Physical Stats, Dating/Affairs, Family and career updates. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. 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. Even the year we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were going to win and we just didn't. Condolences to the family. "That bitterness never, ever was there with Doug, ever," he said. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. Learn How rich is He in this year and how He spends money? 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. Cause of death not yet known. Buffone's company Digital One is the creator of ClickStreamTV, an online video platform product that was designed for small to medium-sized businesses. Besides being a hell of a football player, he was a hell of a guy.. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Doug Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker, has died. 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 Buffone was a terrific person, he taught me tons about football and about life. I want to extend my warm wishes to Doug's family for comfort and hope his love will keep you all forever. "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. A true friend. Doug spent his entire career with the Bears (1966-79) serving as defensive captain for eight years. ol' buddy! 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. 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. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. Remember taking Doug and several players to a local Catholic Church the day that JFK died. And now it just seems that (the excitement) is not just starting in August at training camps. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, 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. 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. He died of natural causes, they said. Mitch Rosen, WSCR operations director, called Buffone a Chicago original., Not only a great football player, a great person on the radio but more than anything, just a great individual, Rosen said. ESPN's Jeff Dickerson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. 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 Doug was my football hero. The Associated Press. R.I.P. (2Cor.1:3). The Buffone Family is in my prayers. After his playing days were over , had a great career doing radio with OB. My prayers and condolences for his family and dear friends. For some people, the best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: a big party. A great Bear, but a better person. Syracuse Post Standard Homepage. "He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. It's a great event that they're (now) going to have it in Chicago. Expand the Memories and Condolences form. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. PEACE. A native of Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears. Buffone is one of only four players to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons. The shockwaves from Doug's passing have been felt by so many of us. Doug will be fondly remembered through many recaptures of the lives he touched. Can the Lions fix their defense? 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. Doug Buffone died in his sleep on April 20, 2015. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations to Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital Heart and Vascular Center would be much appreciated. Tom Shaer. 37:10. Adored his children and his Dana. At Louisville, Buffone played center and linebacker for coach Frank Camp. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.. I will always remember our times together. He attended Shannock Valley High School. (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. Somebody that everybody loved. Both players eventually found their way into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Ways to honor Doug Buffone's life and legacy. Gonna miss him. RIP # 55. 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. Sincerely, Marilyn Davis. Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. Such an amazing man. Buffone's team record for games played was ultimately eclipsed by former long snapper Patrick Mannelly, who now holds the mark with 245. I have nothing but great memories about him., Doug was a Bear. Thread starter richsox24; Start date Apr 20, 2015; richsox24 Apr 20, 2015 #1 Just reported. He was a fourth-round draft pick. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards. Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. According to Bears media guides, Buffone also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. Dana and family, be assured of my prayers. God Bless his soul and now eternal life through Jesus Christ. "He understood how important it was to go out of your way to appreciate your family and the good things that you have.". "But the meek will possess the earth, And they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace." RIP friend. 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. Tribune reporter Carlos Sadovi contributed. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.". Our prayers go out to his wife, Dana, and his children. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. We will all miss you. Everybody on the team wanted To wear Butkus's number; I proudly wore 55 ! In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. Shamrock John. As many who knew him have said, he was a great man and loved his family and his Bears. Family (1) Spouse Dana (? Doug Buffone, a former Bears linebacker who made a seamless transition from a prominent football career to a successful second life as a popular Chicago sports radio personality and businessman, was found dead in his Chicago home Monday, according to police. Cause of death not yet known. Postgames will never be the same without him. "People talk about all that. He made a lasting impression as a "man's -man and a genuine nice guy.". "He understood how important it was to go out of your way to appreciate your family and the good things that you have.". 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. While we seldom saw each other after he left RV, anytime we crossed paths, he always conducted himself as if we were old friends. 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. 23, 2015. My condolences to Dana and the children. "Even when he was healthy, our rookie year we got close but we just didn't have enough to get into the playoffs. We kept saying, 'This is practice. Great athlete! the former Bears linebacker who died April 20th at age 70 of natural causes. Chicago and bear fans around the world will miss you. DOUG YOU REMIND ME OF MY BROTHER WHO DIED MANY YEARS AGO. Later, when he was a guest co-host or scheduled football analyst with me we got to know each other even better. NFL draft questions for teams in the top 10: Will the Colts trade up? CHICAGO (AP) Former Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a You will be greatly missed old friend. 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! My Condolences to the Buffone family. Reporting by Steve Ginsburg in Washington; Editing by Peter Cooney. May memories of him and the love of your family and friends give you strength in the days ahead. Food has always been a go-to for people in mourning. Grief researchers say holding that missing funeral service, even a year or more later, can still help us heal. He will be missed by all he touched. Thanks for the memories, and God bless the Buffone family. 3 all-time tackler with 479, just nine stops behind the program's all-time leader Mark Sander (198790). Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. Web70 Recently Passed Away Celebrities and Famous People. Jr.(Harry) Paul, Bill, John and Doug were always together. The bottom line is he was true and loyal to his family, to football and to his friends. All rights reserved. The man was later identified as Buffone, who played 14 seasons for the Bears. A savage warrior with a heart of gold. Over the years I got to know not only the football player, but the Man. David Kessler's top 4 tips for dealing with holiday grief. 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 Buffone was the star of a popular segment of the Mully and Hanley show on WCSR on Fridays during the football season. Doug Buffone Birthday and Date of Death Doug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015. and Love. Burlington Centrals Nicholas Gouriotis figures out the difference. 63-yo Bodybuilder Doug Brignoles Cause of Death Revealed As Covid-19 Infection Not Vaccination While there was speculation about Brignole's death, L.A. Doug Buffone will be missed.". Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. One time for Doug Buffone! #dougbuffone. "It's the 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; "He wasn't worried about his awards or anything else," Butkus said. Yet Buffones death was also untimely, unexpected and filled with another kind of sadness. Doug Buffone was very kind to the Dominican Friars at Fenwick High School outside of Chicago. Police were conducting a death invgestigation Monday afternoon. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. (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. CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. He was a great player and a great friend, former Bears tight end and coach Mike Ditka said. 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. Police News Affairs said he was pronounced dead on the scene. What a guy! Menu. He led Louisville in tackles three straight years and remains third on the all-time career list for tackles made with 479. "That bitterness never, ever was there with Doug ever," he said. In his professional career, Buffone gathered more than 1,200 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone's relationship with the team's fans continued beyond his playing days. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. with funeral mass to follow at 6 pm. Thank Mr. Buffone for your hard nose defense that you brought to the Bears. 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 "Sending our heartfelt condolences to family & friends of ex-#Bears LB Doug Buffone, who has passed away at age 70,"the Chicago Bears tweeted. Godspeed to all concerned. 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 is survived by his wife, Dana, and six children: Doug Jr., Stephanie, Talleri, Ryan, Hailey and Heather. Rest in peace big Doug. My condolences to your family you will be missed. He was a kind and very well respected person throughout his earthly life. 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! You never gave up on the field and you always wished the best for the Bears. And it's just that people are clamoring for more NFL. He will be deeply missed. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. Obituaries Section. "I don't think anybody that has played for the Bears ever had more.' - 20 April 2015) (his death) (2 children) Trivia (1) Doug was a great friend to all of us. ", "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. "This is kind of a lull in the year. Smooth and cool., Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. Friends give you strength in the top 10: will the Colts trade up Bears chairman George McCaskey noted Buffone... Know who ever met him and his long-time Bears post-game partner Ed left. A fourth-round draft pick by the time Buffone wrapped up his brilliant career, and! Football Hall of Fame bear fans around the world will miss you a must-listen after games, especially following difficult! Or loved one during this time off Rush Street and joined Chicago sports talk radio and local television ). To check in last week but never did the world will miss you stops behind the 's. 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