You'll be missed Doug!!! and Love. 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. Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. 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. Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70. 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. In the 21st century, it's not just urns and gravestones anymore. While we seldom saw each other after he left RV, anytime we crossed paths, he always conducted himself as if we were old friends. 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. I will always remember our times together. Bear Down. Rest in peace with all the angels and saints. He made a difference in a good-way in a lot of people lives. Other shows Buffone was involved in producing included The Neal Anderson Show for WBBM-AM, and The Mike Ditka Show for WSCR-AM. The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards. "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. Doug Buffone will be missed. "I was going to call him over the weekend just to check in with him and see what was going on. It was an exhibition game in 1966. Both players eventually found their way into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. 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. Beyond my incredible respect for him he was a guy I loved, just like everybody I know who ever met him. 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. 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. 3 all-time tackler with 479, just nine stops behind the program's all-time leader Mark Sander (198790). All Rights Reserved. Butkus admits he's often asked about what might have been had Sayers stayed healthy and extended his career. Over the years I got to know not only the football player, but the Man. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. Death of Doug Buffone. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. A great player on the field and an even better man off the field in all aspects. "His talent for tackling on the field earned him a special place in Bears history and his contributions in business and broadcasting made him a treasured member of our community off the field. (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. My prayers and condolences for his family and dear friends. "We are terribly saddened to hear of Doug's passing," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. Food has always been a go-to for people in mourning. Postgames will never be the same without him. Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Projecting the futures of Kirk Cousins, Dalvin Cook and other Vikings veterans. I met Buz at the Bears training camp in Rensselaer, Indiana in 1969, through his teammate and my best friend, Willie Holman. The others are Mark Sander, Tom Jackson (197072) and Tyrus McCloud (1994-96). 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; Not bad for the son of a coal miner who grew up in tiny Yatesboro, Pennsylvania (pop. You never gave up on the field and you always wished the best for the Bears. The first two pickoffs of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. June 27, 1944 - April 20, 2015 Chicago, Illinois | Age 70 Former Chicago Bears linebacker dies . After his playing days were over , had a great career doing radio with OB. I appreciated his honesty and knowledge and just want to say thank you Big Doug. Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. DOUG YOU REMIND ME OF MY BROTHER WHO DIED MANY YEARS AGO. His earlier misses? You will be greatly missed old friend. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Adored his children and his Dana. He was the last active player to play for team founder George Halas. See How All 50 Wards Voted in the 2023 Chicago Mayoral Election. Former Bears linebacker Buffone dies at 70, Top draft prospect Carter charged in fatal crash, Trade Lamar? I am truly sorry for the loss of Doug Buffone. 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. And I didn't call. Your legacy will live forever in my heart and mind.. Bear Down! I never had the honor and privilege of meeting Doug but I listened to him on the radio religiously. He was 70. to laugh at yourself. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. His retirement ended a link to our founder as he was the last active player to play for George Halas.. 23, 2015. By the time Buffone wrapped up his brilliant career, he led all Bears linebackers with 24 career interceptions. 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. We kept saying, 'This is practice. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. RIP #55 You will always be in our hearts!! Smooth and cool., Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. WebCompare Doug Buffone to . Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. ESPN'sJeff Dickerson andThe Associated Press contributed to this report. According to Bears media guides, Buffone also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. The pride Doug brought to the community in which he grew up could never be measured. "Sending our heartfelt condolences to family & friends of ex-#Bears LB Doug Buffone, who has passed away at age 70,"the Chicago Bears tweeted. Thanks for the memories, and God bless the Buffone family. I love and will miss you dearly! This is a big event. He remains the Cardinals' No. Doug Buffone will be missed.". Buffone had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. "But that kind of floored me when my son called me and said what had happened. ESPN's Jeff Dickerson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. "He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. His retirement ended a link to our founder as he was the last active player to play for George Halas. 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 . 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. 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. 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. Douglas John Buffone (June 27, 1944 April 20, 2015) was an American football linebacker in the National Football League. I am sad that I won't be able to listen to him any more. He attended Shannock Valley High School. Cause of death not yet known. He played the part of "Big Doug", a bookie and collector, noted for his humour in character as "Big Doug". You taught me that it's o.k. And now it just seems that (the excitement) is not just starting in August at training camps. 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. He was a Bears rookie. Mr Buffone has always been a true ambassador for Chicago, the Bears, and the NFL. I never met the man, but through the radio I felt like I got to know Doug like an uncle. Doug Buffone was a terrific person, he taught me tons about football and about 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! Thank Mr. Buffone for your hard nose defense that you brought to the Bears. My thoughts and prayers are with Dana and the entire family! 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! It seemed to me he was lucky that he never had any serious injuries while he played with me, Dick Butkus said. In his post-NFL life, he hosted various Bears talk shows and the post-game shows for the games, co-hosted by former player and teammate Ed O'Bradovich, on 670 The Score. Doug will be missed but not forgotten. Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love. 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. Buffone died due to natural causes, said police spokesman Thomas Sweeney. In a 14-year NFL career, Buffone's rugged play and indomitable attitude represented the spirit of the Bears and the city of Chicago. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. Career Powered by . He Discover Doug Buffone's Biography, Age, Height, Physical Stats, Dating/Affairs, Family and career updates. Say hi to Vince Lombardi and all the other men that played with their Heart. 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. The bottom line is he was true and loyal to his family, to football and to his friends. It's hard to say. He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. Later, when he was a guest co-host or scheduled football analyst with me we got to know each other even better. Doug Sr was a man of honor and humor, and will be missed by many. In May 2009, Buffone and his long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago Sports Webio. And he proved it each week over his 14-year career, a tenure record he shared with another great, Bill George, for 33 seasons. From the sidelines of the Chicago Bears to the Casino, you will be greatly missed. Born in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone played linebacker and center from 1962 to 1965 at the University of Louisville. He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. Our sincere condolences to the Buffone family. CHICAGO (AP) Former Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a He died of natural causes, they said. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. Doug was my football hero. (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. Doug was an excellent linebacker and had great career. 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. Just a great guy. Enjoy heaven with Sweetness, Gale, and Papa Bear. Search by Name. And he proved it each week over his 14-year career, a tenure record he shared with another great, Bill George, for 33 seasons. Giving to charity is a meaningful way to honor someone who has died. Today is a sad day for Bears nation. Hub. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. Player News. They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel. I just found this sad news out. God Bless, Linda Poulos. 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. Very sorry for your loss Doug will be missed by friends,family and the sports world my heart goes out to his family. There's been a tremendous response to it. Buffone started a record 186 games as a Bear, during which time he recorded more than 1,200 tackles and 24 interceptions. The Bears selected him in the fourth round of the 1966 NFL draft and he chose the team over a better contract offer from San Diego in the old AFL. 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. Tribune reporter Carlos Sadovi contributed. Doug Buffone will be missed.. The man was later identified as Buffone, who played 14 seasons for the Bears. "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. 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. One time for Doug Buffone! My condolences to Dana & children, Mr.Buffone you were a solid contributor to society and the Bears.A real class act God Bless you and your entire family.You will be missed. But Butkus never gives it extended thought. May you find comfort in knowing that suffering and death will end here on earth. Doug, a kind soul. A native of Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears in 1966 out of Louisville. It's surprising how much a musical selection can affect mourning. We are praying for you and family. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. Doug was the man. "One time for Doug Buffone! "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. He was a kind and very well respected person throughout his earthly life. 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. I am Dyke's 1st cousin. Always enjoyed watching Doug play LB alongside Butkus and Brubacher, the 3 B's. Could the Cowboys look at a running back in first round again? Visitation on Friday at Old St. Patrick's Church, 700 W. Adams, Friday at 2 pm. Great person. Web70 Recently Passed Away Celebrities and Famous People. It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it, tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. Buffone retired with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bear linebackers. You have to write a tribute to someone you love man, but simply a description of what commonly. In with him and see what was going to call him over the years I got know. Link to our founder as he was true and loyal to his family, to football and to family. 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