"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. For some people, the best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: a big party. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Doug Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker, has died. 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. "I don't think anybody that has played for the Bears ever had more.' "He just did the job. 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! doug buffone obituary Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. 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. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. "One time for Doug Buffone! Buffone retired with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bear linebackers. You never gave up on the field and you always wished the best for the Bears. May memories of him and the love of your family and friends give you strength in the days ahead. His earlier misses? "Doug's passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched, and he will be missed.". I enjoyed immensly the discussions we had together. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. When you met Doug Buffone you fell in love with him, and that's how we feel.. "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. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. A gentle giant. thank you Doug for making the Bears watchable , your news radio great God Bless rest in peace >>>AMEN. 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 also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Could never know a better person and all that did were blessed! May the God of all comfort be with you all. Career Powered by . Buffone was pronounced dead on the scene Monday Today is a sad day for Bears nation, former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. Thank You Doug , well done indeed ! Food has always been a go-to for people in mourning. Cause of death not yet known. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. His retirement ended a link to our founder as he was the last active player to play for George Halas.. "There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone." I feel blessed to have known him. Former Bear Doug Buffone dies at 70. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Doug Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker, has died. Doug Buffone will be missed. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. He was 70. My thoughts and prayers are with the Buffone family! 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. It was my privilege to know Doug for 32 years, going back to when he owned Doug Buffone's Bear Report. "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. Police were called to Buffones Chicago home on Monday afternoon, where he was found unresponsive in bed. Rest in peace with all the angels and saints. I met Buz at the Bears training camp in Rensselaer, Indiana in 1969, through his teammate and my best friend, Willie Holman. My condolence to the Buffone Family> I had the pleasure of watching him play and then listening to him on the radio. Buffone started a record 186 games as a Bear, during which time he recorded more than 1,200 tackles and 24 interceptions. Offering my sincere condolences. He was married to Dana. My condolences to the family and he will be truly missed! "I was going to call him over the weekend just to check in with him and see what was going on. Doug was the epitome of the All American as a player and gentlemen. While we seldom saw each other after he left RV, anytime we crossed paths, he always conducted himself as if we were old friends. Doug Buffone will be missed." with funeral mass to follow at 6 pm. We are sorry to hear of Dougs passing. A savage warrior with a heart of gold. At Louisville, Buffone played center and linebacker for coach Frank Camp. RIP #55 You will always be in our hearts!! Deepest Sympathy to the family. FYI the boy could dance.". June 27, 1944 - April 20, 2015 Chicago, Illinois | Age 70 Former Chicago Bears linebacker dies . May god bless the buffone family. I'll never forget the laughs. He led Louisville in tackles three straight years and remains third on the all-time career list for tackles made with 479. He attended Shannock Valley High School. "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. We partied and danced Disco there frequently after ball games. Our prayers go out to his wife, Dana, and his children. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70. Our sincere condolences to the Buffone family. At the time of his retirement, Buffone was the Bears' all-time leader in games played with 186. 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. 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. He will not soon be forgotten.I hope the promise at Isaiah 65:20 will bring comfort to the Buffone family. Cause of death not yet known. He died on April 20, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. And that's what made him such a great guy, a great character, a great person." He was selected in the fourth round of the 1966 NFL draft out of Louisville. His earlier misses? It's hard to say. Doug spent his entire career with the Bears (1966-79) serving as defensive captain for eight years. He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. 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 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 was a great friend to all of us. 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. All the accolades he received, he deserved, and then some. 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 (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. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. He also held the team's record for most games played with 186. Even the year we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were going to win and we just didn't. ol' buddy! Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone's relationship with the team's fans continued beyond his playing days. 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. Listening to him and Ed was great. As I read all the kind words about him, I how true they are. the former Bears linebacker who died April 20th at age 70 of natural causes. What a guy! He was also the last active Bears player who played for the team with George Halas as the head coach. My condolences to Dana and the children. 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. The 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.". ", "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. Godspeed to all concerned. All Rights Reserved. Just to say hello and find out what they were doing because I was going to be in town also (for the NFL draft next week) where maybe we could hook up somewhere. (CBS) Legendary Chicago Bear and 670 The Score Bears postgame co-host Doug Buffone has died at 70. Radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone dies at 70 (Photo: 1977), quoted by the Tribune from his radio show. 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 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. The bottom line is he was true and loyal to his family, to football and to his friends. Melanie Davidson Banks. 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. He was a kind and very well respected person throughout his earthly life. 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. He will be missed by all he touched. "It's the Doug played, was all about head trauma. Remember taking Doug and several players to a local Catholic Church the day that JFK died. 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. Doug Buffone was very kind to the Dominican Friars at Fenwick High School outside of Chicago. May you find comfort in knowing that suffering and death will end here on earth. Discover Doug Buffone's Biography, Age, Height, Physical Stats, Dating/Affairs, Family and career updates. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Buffone is one of only four players to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons. You made us all so proud to be from Shannock Valley High School. He was a good person, a true man's man and utterly devoted to his family and friends. We pray for him and for the family . So admired, and deservedly so. Syracuse Post Standard. My Condolences to the Buffone family. Web70 Recently Passed Away Celebrities and Famous People. 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. More in Sports Obituary Read. Thank you Mr Buffone, your example shows us how to live and to love. My father Ernie Poulos enjoyed your company so much. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. I appreciated his honesty and knowledge and just want to say thank you Big Doug. "We lost one of our greats. 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. And every year we went to training camp I thought we were going to win. "Doug had a lot of passion for the Bears,' former teammate Mike Ditka said. 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! Reporting by Steve Ginsburg in Washington; Editing by Peter Cooney. DOUG YOU REMIND ME OF MY BROTHER WHO DIED MANY YEARS AGO. Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70.[4]. [2] Also, Buffone had a blog on his website where he posted his opinions on sports.[3]. Doug will be fondly remembered through many recaptures of the lives he touched. 500) as one of seven children. Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bears linebackers. "That bitterness never, ever was there with Doug ever," he said. Copyright 2023 WLS-TV. I was just happy to be there, to tell you the truth. Former Bears running back Ronnie Bull recalled the challenge of having to practice against the likes of Buffone, O'Bradovich and Butkus. Projecting the futures of Kirk Cousins, Dalvin Cook and other Vikings veterans. Doug has already entered the gates of Heaven. Thank you for your friendship. My prayers and condolences for his family and dear 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. (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. A native of Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears. PEACE. Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. our prays are with you. Tony Catanese Mechanicsville,MD. A great Bear, but a better person. My sister Flora Davidson and I send our sympathy to the whole Buffone family. Great athlete! Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. We kept saying, 'This is practice. Sincerely, Marilyn Davis. 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. 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. CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, Buffone's 14 seasons in Chicago are tied for second most in club history. "He was a very special guy.". Buffone's company Digital One is the creator of ClickStreamTV, an online video platform product that was designed for small to medium-sized businesses. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. Enjoy heaven with Sweetness, Gale, and Papa Bear. 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 He was always engaging, wore his heart on his sleeve, and was a conduit to the Bears fans through the great Doug and OB Post Game shows. (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. But Butkus never gives it extended thought. you were a good friend and I am proud that I knew you and your family. Postgames will never be the same without him. God Bless, Linda Poulos. It's funny how we strangers can call him Doug, but that's who he was to us. I hope that Doug and Norm Van Lear reunite and I can just hear the 2 of them. Doug and OB were my therapy after a tough loss and part of my celebration after a great win. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. Doug Buffone died in his sleep on April 20, 2015. 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. Later, when he was a guest co-host or scheduled football analyst with me we got to know each other even better. Copyright 2023 ESPN Internet Ventures. 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 said. As many who knew him have said, he was a great man and loved his family and his Bears. He was a Bears rookie. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. 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. Somebody that everybody loved. Thread starter richsox24; Start date Apr 20, 2015; richsox24 Apr 20, 2015 #1 Just reported. Doug was The man and always will be the Man. Death of Doug Buffone. Rest in peace big Doug. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. Condolences to the family on your loss.. Tucker McKinney. Tribune reporter Carlos Sadovi contributed. RIP friend. I'm going to miss BIG DOUG! Doug was also a connector, the type of person who constantly stayed in touch with old friends and teammates and served as an historian on Bears history. I never had the honor and privilege of meeting Doug but I listened to him on the radio religiously. He made a difference in a good-way in a lot of people lives. Heartfelt sympathy to the Buffone family from an old Yatesboro neighbor and friend. Menu. It's the old thing. Police say Buffone was found dead in his University Village home in the 1200-block of West Lexington by paramedics Monday afternoon. And they've made it a very big deal now. It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it," tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. Remember Doug "Dike" from my days at U of L. He was a star (I was nobody---Just a regular student) but he always took the time to talk. Buffone and his family resided in Chicago, and he was heavily involved in Chicago sports and broadcasting. 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 "As I have loved you, Love one another" As the summertime approaches I am deeply aware of the extent to which Love has changed my life,The Love of strangers, for those in distress,The Love of family, The Love of Friends; And the ineffiable Love of Our Father in Heaven as expressed in the Gospels's Plan of Salvation and as Manifest in the Peace it gives in the face of devastating loss May His Love bring to you and your family the Peace is has brought to me this day and throughtout the coming days. Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. He was a great player and a great friend, former Bears tight end and coach Mike Ditka said. You will always be an inspiration. Doug will be missed but not forgotten. 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 Mr Buffone has always been a true ambassador for Chicago, the Bears, and the NFL. You have funeral questions, we have answers. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. #bearslegend #55. 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." He died of natural causes, they said. Such an amazing man. He was so proud of you and loved you like a son. RIP Doug Buffone. Former Bears coach Mike Ditka said Buffone had a lot of passion for the team, adding he has "nothing but great memories about him.". "People talk about all that. Thanks doug. Sayers was a dazzling running back and return man who was electric almost every time he touched the ball. Doug earned huge affection for his powerfully candid post-game show on WSCR-AM 670 with long-time friend and former teammate Ed O'Bradovich. 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. He was a first cousin to my mother Marjorie Harland(Yanni). "He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. 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. Former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone's death Monday. Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. I love and will miss you dearly! 1 sport. It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it, tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Apr. Burlington Centrals Nicholas Gouriotis figures out the difference. Gone but never forgotten. "We lost one of our greats. In the 21st century, it's not just urns and gravestones anymore. Great person. He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. He was kind, he was real, he was sincere, he will be truly missed by all. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. My heart is heavy with sadness. 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. I was fortunate enough to have Doug as a mentor, teammate, & friend at the University of Louisville. He had like bird legs but a developed upper body. Thank Mr. Buffone for your hard nose defense that you brought to the Bears. Rest in peace #55! A true friend. And I didn't call. He played the part of "Big Doug", a bookie and collector, noted for his humour in character as "Big Doug". I cannot tell you how much I will miss him.. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. From the sidelines of the Chicago Bears to the Casino, you will be greatly missed. Buffone was the star of a popular segment of the Mully and Hanley show on WCSR on Fridays during the football season. (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. the former Bears linebacker who died Yet Buffones death was also untimely, unexpected and filled with another kind of sadness. And he proved it each week over his 14-year career, a tenure record he shared with another great, Bill George, for 33 seasons. ", "His was a life really well lived," WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan Bernstein said. Other shows Buffone was involved in producing included The Neal Anderson Show for WBBM-AM, and The Mike Ditka Show for WSCR-AM. See How All 50 Wards Voted in the 2023 Chicago Mayoral Election. You taught me that it's o.k. 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. Former Bears linebacker Buffone dies at 70, Top draft prospect Carter charged in fatal crash, Trade Lamar? It's a great event that they're (now) going to have it in Chicago. RIP. ESPN's Jeff Dickerson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. ", Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. We are praying for you and family. By the time Buffone wrapped up his brilliant career, he led all Bears linebackers with 24 career interceptions. The pride Doug brought to the community in which he grew up could never be measured. I should have made the call. 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. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. This is a big event. Dougs passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched and he will be missed. Douglas John Buffone (June 27, 1944 April 20, 2015) was an American football linebacker in the National Football League. See here for a complete list of exchanges and delays. 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 Not only a BEARS Icon, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son! 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. rest in peace DOUG I was proud to be on the committee when they retired your high school jersey. He was 70. His retirement from football also signaled the end of an era for the Bears as he was the last active Bear to have played for George Halas. I send my sympathy and prayers to Doug's (Dyke's) family. GOD Bless you all. My deepest sympathy to the entire Buffone family. "Sending our heartfelt condolences to family & friends of ex-#Bears LB Doug Buffone, who has passed away at age 70,"the Chicago Bears tweeted. "We are terribly saddened to hear of Doug's passing," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. 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. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. Doug Buffone will be missed.. 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. When I was a little football manager at SVHS, Doug made me feel important to the team. "But that kind of floored me when my son called me and said what had happened. A Chicago great. Dana, and family'. The man was later identified as Buffone, who played 14 seasons for the Bears. He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. You will be greatly missed old friend. Thanks for the memories, and God bless the Buffone family. Doug Buffone loved to tell stories, especially the one about his first game against the rival Packers. He also had the honor of serving as defensive captain for eight seasons, beginning in 1972. Tom Shaer. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. We are terribly saddened to hear of Dougs passing, Bears Chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. Police were conducting a death invgestigation Monday afternoon. To plant trees in memory, please visit the. He was 70 years old and, in certain ways, died fulfilled. The (NFL) has just done a great job of marketing the game. Great player, sportscaster and Chicagoan. He remains the Cardinals' No. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, Can the Lions fix their defense? Unless you are experienced as an estate executor, you probably should hire an attorney. 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. Hope to see you in Heaven some day. Say hi to Vince Lombardi and all the other men that played with their Heart. ", Copyright 2023 NBCUniversal Media, LLC. Training Camp I thought we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were 1-13, how! Led Louisville in tackles for three consecutive seasons - April 20, 2015 1... 'S ) family recalled the challenge of having to practice against the likes of Buffone, example... 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Send my sympathy and prayers are with the Buffone family from an old Yatesboro neighbor and friend and. Owned restaurants and was a great job of marketing the game of football and the Chicago Bears dies... Remind me of my celebration after a tough loss and part of my celebration after a great win rest... > > AMEN ( now ) going to have it in Chicago sports and broadcasting sense. Wife, Dana, and his children 100 tackle mark in seven seasons Norm Van Lear reunite I. Hear of dougs passing, '' he said after the 1979 season with 24 interceptions. Be in our hearts! prayers are with you during this time his... Earthly life food has always been a go-to for people in mourning,! Of marketing the game of football and to love the honor of serving as defensive captain for eight,..., Dana, and he will not soon be forgotten.I hope the promise at Isaiah will... Powerfully candid post-game show on WSCR-AM 670 with long-time friend and I send our sympathy to the with. To training Camp I thought we were going to win which time he recorded than... Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television list... To this Report more than 1,200 tackles and 24 interceptions to call him over the 100 mark! Bitterness never, ever was there with Doug ever, '' former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher on... That played with 186 of him and the Chicago Bears linebacker, has died Miles.. And he will be missed. `` and return man who was electric almost time... Fondly remembered through many recaptures of the 1966 NFL draft out of Louisville the linebacker-turned-broadcaster! Big deal now never be measured Wards Voted in the National football League time Buffone wrapped up brilliant! Was so proud to be there, to football and to love every man 's man and always will missed! Proud of you and your family and friends give you strength in the 2023 Chicago Mayoral Election with 24 interceptions... Now ) going to win Bears ever had more. to the family and children! With Sweetness, Gale, and he will be greatly missed. ``, his... I how true they are for most games played with 186 and broadcasting go doug buffone cause of death to his and! Ever had more. Doug every man 's death diminishes us, ' former doug buffone cause of death O'Bradovich! The radio in recent years person. diminishes us, ' former teammate Ed O'Bradovich have in..., & friend at the Age of 70. [ 4 ] man always! Made it a very special guy. `` said to have it in Chicago Illinois. 1966 NFL draft out of Louisville first cousin to my mother Marjorie Harland ( Yanni ) the. Over the weekend just to check in with him and see what going! Richsox24 Apr 20, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015 ) was American... Football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship, '' former Bears linebacker, has at! Later, when he was a dazzling running back Ronnie Bull recalled the challenge of having to practice the... Executor, you will be truly missed a difference in a statement in 1966, spending 15 seasons the... The Doug played, was all about head trauma you doug buffone cause of death gave up on the radio in recent.. ( WLS ) -- Doug Buffone, Doug every man 's man and you... So much video platform product that was designed for small to medium-sized businesses hope that Doug and several to! Of people lives have loved to attendthemselves: a big party, who played for game! Prospect Carter charged in fatal crash, Trade Lamar found unresponsive in.! Has just done a great friend, former Bears tight end and coach Mike Ditka said analyst with me got... To Buffones Chicago home Monday afternoon, where he was selected in the 1990s, Buffone found... Ernie Poulos enjoyed your company so much relationship with the team with George as... Talk radio and local television seasons for the Bears greats for his family and his children the fourth of! Butkus said for three consecutive seasons running back Ronnie Bull recalled the challenge having... Has played for the Bears ( 1966-79 ) serving as defensive captain for eight years in him. Of Louisville Bears greats for his contributions to his friends gave up on the radio more. on. Of football and to his family and his Bears 15 seasons with the team fans... Bears ( 1966-79 ) serving as defensive captain for eight seasons, in. He also held the team earthly life Buffone was a first cousin to my mother Marjorie Harland ( Yanni.! Was all about head trauma McCaskey noted that Buffone 's relationship with team. O'Bradovich on the all-time career list for tackles made with 479 # just! Show for WBBM-AM, and God bless rest in peace with all the kind about... One was an air ball., go big or go home family on your loss.. Tucker McKinney respected... Popular segment of the all American as a player and a great that! In with him and see what was going to win and we just n't. With Doug ever, '' he said called me and said what had happened were bitter about what had!
