Even the year we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were going to win and we just didn't. Great player, broadcaster, and humanitarian. "People talk about all that. 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. A native of Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears in 1966 out of Louisville. Always enjoyed watching Doug play LB alongside Butkus and Brubacher, the 3 B's. NFL draft questions for teams in the top 10: Will the Colts trade up? Submit an Obituary. When you met Doug Buffone you fell in love with him, and that's how we feel.. 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 loved to tell stories, especially the one about his first game against the rival Packers. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations to Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital Heart and Vascular Center would be much appreciated. "One time for Doug Buffone! Former Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone's legacy stretches far beyond the football field. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. All quotes delayed a minimum of 15 minutes. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. Sayers was a dazzling running back and return man who was electric almost every time he touched the ball. I was just happy to be there, to tell you the truth. Born in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone played linebacker and center from 1962 to 1965 at the University of Louisville. 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.". 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. It's a great event that they're (now) going to have it in Chicago. Police News Affairs said he was pronounced dead on the scene. My condolences to your family you will be missed. My condolences to Dana and the children. Doug was one of the founders of the Arena Football League, starting the Chicago Bruisers franchise, which played in the ArenaBowl II, he appeared on some Bruisers Radio and TV broadcasts with Les Grobstein, and was involved in the United States Football League with the Chicago Blitz. So sad to lose a boyhood friend. Dougs passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched and he will be missed. Doug will be fondly remembered through many recaptures of the lives he touched. Doug was The man and always will be the Man. He made a difference in a good-way in a lot of people lives. Former Bears coach Mike Ditka said Buffone had a lot of passion for the team, adding he has "nothing but great memories about him.". He attended Shannock Valley High School. ", "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. Javascript is required for the selection of a player. DOUG YOU REMIND ME OF MY BROTHER WHO DIED MANY YEARS AGO. Doug Buffone will be missed.". "That bitterness never, ever was there with Doug ever," he said. June 27, 1944 - April 20, 2015 Chicago, Illinois | Age 70 Former Chicago Bears linebacker dies . My Condolences to the Buffone family. There's been a tremendous response to it. Buffone, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in club history for a linebacker, Doug Sr was a man of honor and humor, and will be missed by many. In a statement, O'Bradovich said: Being with Doug the last 49 years, I know that no one person could love a family more than Doug. Doug 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. Copyright 2023 ESPN Internet Ventures. 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. 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. His earlier misses? My sister Flora Davidson and I send our sympathy to the whole Buffone family. I'll never forget the laughs. As a devoted Bear Fan for the last 50 years or more, I remember how truly great a linebacker he was. thank you Doug for making the Bears watchable , your news radio great God Bless rest in peace >>>AMEN. Buffone in recent years hosted a Bears postgame radio show on WSCR-AM with former teammate Ed O'Bradovich. Many prayers to our cousins for the loss of Doug. Tom Shaer. Offering my sincere condolences. He Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love. RIP. Career Powered by . you were a good friend and I am proud that I knew you and your family. I met Buz at the Bears training camp in Rensselaer, Indiana in 1969, through his teammate and my best friend, Willie Holman. He also had the honor of serving as defensive captain for eight seasons, beginning in 1972. Tribune reporter Carlos Sadovi contributed. My heart is heavy with sadness. He was a first cousin to my mother Marjorie Harland(Yanni). May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. 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. Former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone's death Monday. 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. His retirement ended a link to our founder as he was the last active player to play for George Halas. This is a big event. 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. I enjoyed immensly the discussions we had together. He played the game with passion and conviction. 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 pickoffs of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative? You taught me that it's o.k. 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. Buffone started a record 186 games as a Bear, during which time he recorded more than 1,200 tackles and 24 interceptions. Doug Buffone will be missed. Played 186 games as a Bear, the third most among Bears. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. A true friend. #dougbuffone. Thanks for the memories, and God bless the Buffone family. [2] Also, Buffone had a blog on his website where he posted his opinions on sports.[3]. Buffone had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. After his playing days were over , had a great career doing radio with OB. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. Sadly, the personification of class and humility,is no longer with us. Portrait. He remains the Cardinals' No. He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. The Associated Press. "We are terribly saddened to hear of Doug's passing," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. I Had the pleasure of working for him at BBC. 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. Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. It's funny how we strangers can call him Doug, but that's who he was to us. 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! The Buffone Family is in my prayers. Such an amazing man. By the time Buffone wrapped up his brilliant career, he led all Bears linebackers with 24 career interceptions. doug buffone obituary Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. I am sad that I won't be able to listen to him any more. Rest in peace with all the angels and saints. He had like bird legs but a developed upper body. Buffone was an outspoken critic of the team in slow times, quoted by the Tribune from his radio show saying, "I could have gone to Rush Street last night and found 24 players who could do better than the Bears did today. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. 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. Buffone is survived by his wife, Dana, and six children: Doug Jr., Stephanie, Talleri, Ryan, Hailey and Heather. 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. Godspeed to all concerned. He will not soon be forgotten.I hope the promise at Isaiah 65:20 will bring comfort to the Buffone family. Not bad for the son of a coal miner who grew up in tiny Yatesboro, Pennsylvania (pop. Our prayers go out to his wife, Dana, and his children. Which first-round prospects should Raiders focus on at combine? It was my privilege to know Doug for 32 years, going back to when he owned Doug Buffone's Bear Report. From the sidelines of the Chicago Bears to the Casino, you will be greatly missed. Former Bears running back Ronnie Bull recalled the challenge of having to practice against the likes of Buffone, O'Bradovich and Butkus. Doug Buffone (Douglas John Buffone) was born on 27 June, 1944 in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, USA, is an Actor. And I don't know if we really improved after that (with) our draft choices or whatever. I'm going to miss BIG DOUG! Doug has already entered the gates of Heaven. Doug was the epitome of the All American as a player and gentlemen. He died of natural causes, they said. You will always be an inspiration. You will be greatly missed old friend. Former Bears teammates remembered Buffone as an affable, fun-loving athlete with an engaging personality. He was a fourth-round draft pick. 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 "We lost one of our greats. Former Bear Doug Buffone dies at 70. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. the former Bears linebacker who died April 20th at age 70 of natural causes. 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. A friend for 44 years. All of us from back home in our Pennsylvania coal mining town were blessed to have him in our lives. Projecting the futures of Kirk Cousins, Dalvin Cook and other Vikings veterans. Doug was the man. Buffone died at his residence in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 2015, aged 70. He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions, the most for any Bears linebacker. Doug Buffone was a terrific person, he taught me tons about football and about life. "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 sincere condolences to the Buffone family. 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'. Buffone died due to natural causes, said police spokesman Thomas Sweeney. He was 70. A life well lived. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. Doug was a great friend to all of us. Buffone was drafted by the Bears in 1966, spending 15 seasons with the team. Over the years I got to know not only the football player, but the Man. 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. rest in peace DOUG I was proud to be on the committee when they retired your high school jersey. ", "His was a life really well lived," WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan Bernstein said. 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 Web70 Recently Passed Away Celebrities and Famous People. Rest in peace big Doug. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. Death of Doug Buffone. "It drove him nuts when we didn't play well, and we always appreciated that he wore his heart on his sleeve because we knew how much he cared," McCaskey said. I want to extend my warm wishes to Doug's family for comfort and hope his love will keep you all forever. ESPN's Jeff Dickerson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Dougie, you were a great teammate." 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. He spoke at the Fenwick Fathers' Club several times about how much he enjoyed his own high school football days. Doug Buffone Birthday and Date of Death Doug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015. Buffone's 14 seasons in Chicago are tied for second most in club history. We are praying for you and family. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Both players eventually found their way into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Sympathy to your family. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. The shockwaves from Doug's passing have been felt by so many of us. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.. And they've made it a very big deal now. Player News. Doug was a lifelong entrepreneur, owning enterprises as varied as an embroidery company and a high-tech online video platform. 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. Buffones team record for games played was ultimately eclipsed by former long snapper Patrick Mannelly, who now holds the mark with 245. He was kind, he was real, he was sincere, he will be truly missed by all. 2023 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC. Postgames will never be the same without him. Thanks doug. The Associated Press contributed to this report. It's hard to say. I send my sympathy and prayers to Doug's (Dyke's) family. According to Bears media guides, Buffone also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. Copyright 2023 WLS-TV. 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. 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. Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. In his professional career, Buffone gathered more than 1,200 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. "Sending our heartfelt condolences to family & friends of ex-#Bears LB Doug Buffone, who has passed away at age 70,"the Chicago Bears tweeted. 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. ", Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. Had 11 solo tackles vs. New Orleans (10/6/74), Holds the Bears record for most career interceptions at linebacker (24), Was voted into the Louisville Hall of Fame with Johnny Unitas in 1979, National Italian American Sports hall of fame member since 1992, This page was last edited on 21 February 2023, at 06:39. Doug will be missed but not forgotten. We have fond memories of watching him play at Shannock.God's Peace be with you. He died on April 20, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. 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.