No cause of death was released. You made us all so proud to be from Shannock Valley High School. "He wasn't worried about his awards or anything else," Butkus said. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.". 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. CHICAGO (AP) Former Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a Rest in peace, my friend. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. I have fond memories of our boyhood days in Yatesboro. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. 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 He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. "We lost one of our greats. Buffone's 14 seasons in Chicago are tied for second most in club history. Former Bear Doug Buffone dies at 70. If youre in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist. rest in peace DOUG I was proud to be on the committee when they retired your high school jersey. My heart is heavy with sadness. Sadly, the personification of class and humility,is no longer with us. Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. 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. I was a little girl, during the first half of his football career, he always treated me like I was special when I would see him or go to one of his games. Enjoy that great football field in the sky. Buffone, a fourth-round draft pick whose 24 interceptions remain the most in club history for a linebacker, Great person. ol' buddy! When I was a little football manager at SVHS, Doug made me feel important to the team. Listening to him and Ed was great. Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. Your legacy will live forever in my heart and mind.. Bear Down! 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. 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 enjoyed immensly the discussions we had together. "We lost one of our greats. Other shows Buffone was involved in producing included The Neal Anderson Show for WBBM-AM, and The Mike Ditka Show for WSCR-AM. He made a lasting impression as a "man's -man and a genuine nice guy.". I am truly sorry for the loss of Doug Buffone. 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. Menu. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations to Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital Heart and Vascular Center would be much appreciated. Doug was an excellent linebacker and had great career. Discover Doug Buffone's Biography, Age, Height, Physical Stats, Dating/Affairs, Family and career updates. Gonna miss him. Love for the game - good citizen - living life with a passion - Let the person who is perfect in life - please stand - Only God is perfect; Mr. Buffone you caught the football and carried it for a touchdown to the gates of Heaven. "We are terribly saddened to hear of Doug's passing," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. Love listening to him and O'bradovich after Bears games. 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 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. 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. ", "His was a life really well lived," WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan Bernstein said. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Send simple, comforting meals with Home Chef. Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. Buffone in recent years hosted a Bears postgame radio show on WSCR-AM with former teammate Ed O'Bradovich. Doug was one of the most dependable players in franchise history and perhaps its most beloved. And that's what made him such a great guy, a great character, a great person." Visitation on Friday at Old St. Patrick's Church, 700 W. Adams, Friday at 2 pm. I cannot tell you how much I will miss him.. Enjoy heaven with Sweetness, Gale, and Papa Bear. "I don't know," he said. Gone but never 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 coroner's office the former Bears linebacker who died April 20th at age 70 of natural causes. Condolences to the family. Adored his children and his Dana. Buffone co-hosted "Chicago NFL Live" on "The Score" WSCR 670 AM, as well as Bears postgame with Ed O'Bradovich, and recently completed 14 seasons of The Doug Buffone Show on Fox Sports Net Chicago. (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 Syracuse Post Standard Homepage. Condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. Search by Name. Hub. The first two pickoffs of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. Buffone and his family resided in Chicago, and he was heavily involved in Chicago sports and broadcasting. The pride Doug brought to the community in which he grew up could never be measured. 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. According to Bears media guides, Buffone also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. RIP # 55. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. You will be greatly missed old friend. I'll never forget the laughs. He 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 retired with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bear linebackers. Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. Syracuse Post Standard. Not only a BEARS Icon, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son! "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. ESPN'sJeff Dickerson andThe Associated Press contributed to this report. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. 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'. Beyond my incredible respect for him he was a guy I loved, just like everybody I know who ever met him. "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. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.". As I read all the kind words about him, I how true they are. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. However, in June 2009, the founder of Chicago Sports Webio was charged with operating a Ponzi scheme, and the site was shut down. R.I.P. Over the years I got to know not only the football player, but the Man. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. "He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. Even though we met only twice, you treated me like we were life-long friends. The Associated Press. He remains the Cardinals' No. Buffone and his family resided in Chicago, and he was heavily involved in Chicago sports and broadcasting. Yet Buffones death was also untimely, unexpected and filled with another kind of sadness. doug buffone obituary Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. 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 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. (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. A Chicago great. our prays are with you. Of course, it's the No. In the 21st century, it's not just urns and gravestones anymore. As a University of Louisville teammate from 63-66 he was the inspiration and leader of everyone's effort. My condolences to the Buffone family. Hope to see you in Heaven some day. Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. This is a big event. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. The shockwaves from Doug's passing have been felt by so many of us. Mr Buffone has always been a true ambassador for Chicago, the Bears, and the NFL. Police say Buffone was found dead in his University Village home in the 1200-block of West Lexington by paramedics Monday afternoon. Love to listen to him and Ed O after the game because the called it the way it was. Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone's relationship with the team's fans continued beyond his playing days. The Buffone Family is in my prayers. Born on June 27, 1944, in Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was the son of a coal miner. One time for Doug Buffone! WebDoug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, USA. Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. Sayers was a dazzling running back and return man who was electric almost every time he touched the ball. And I think this is going to help the whole situation. All Rights Reserved. He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. God Bless his soul and now eternal life through Jesus Christ. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. He was a kind and very well respected person throughout his earthly life. Our prayers go out to his wife, Dana, and his children. "People talk about all that. And I don't know if we really improved after that (with) our draft choices or whatever. "He was a very special guy.". June 27, 1944 - April 20, 2015 Chicago, Illinois | Age 70 Former Chicago Bears linebacker dies . He played the part of "Big Doug", a bookie and collector, noted for his humour in character as "Big Doug". Doug Buffone will be missed." There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. 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 just found this sad news out. He died on April 20, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. He was a fourth-round draft pick. 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. to laugh at yourself. Offering my sincere condolences. Player News. "Doug's passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched, and he will be missed.". You'll be missed Doug!!! Doug was very passionate about the Bears and how they played! Somebody that everybody loved. "There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone." Giving to charity is a meaningful way to honor someone who has died. 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. He was 70. Buffone's company Digital One is the creator of ClickStreamTV, an online video platform product that was designed for small to medium-sized businesses. Shamrock John. He was married to Dana. He was 70. Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. 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 There's been a tremendous response to it. It's the old thing. Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bears linebackers. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. "We lost one of our greats. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. Cause of death not yet known. (Chicago Tribune historical photo). 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. We are praying for you and family. Doug Buffone was very kind to the Dominican Friars at Fenwick High School outside of Chicago. Jr.(Harry) Paul, Bill, John and Doug were always together. I send my sympathy and prayers to Doug's (Dyke's) family. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. In a 14-year NFL career, Buffone's rugged play and indomitable attitude represented the spirit of the Bears and the city of Chicago. Burlington Centrals Nicholas Gouriotis figures out the difference. 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. - 20 April 2015) (his death) (2 children) Trivia (1) It's a great event that they're (now) going to have it in Chicago. I was just happy to be there, to tell you the truth. I am Dyke's 1st cousin. 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 said. Born in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone played linebacker and center from 1962 to 1965 at the University of Louisville. Former Bears running back Ronnie Bull recalled the challenge of having to practice against the likes of Buffone, O'Bradovich and Butkus. You played the game with unmatchable passion! Thanks Doug for all you did as a player and broadcaster. Thread starter richsox24; Start date Apr 20, 2015; richsox24 Apr 20, 2015 #1 Just reported. Doug was a lifelong entrepreneur, owning enterprises as varied as an embroidery company and a high-tech online video platform. Great athlete! "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. My prayers and condolences for his family and dear friends. Police were conducting a death invgestigation Monday afternoon. 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. "You didn't get the exposure like you do today," Butkus said. RIP. "That bitterness never, ever was there with Doug, ever," he said. He attended Shannock Valley High School. Our condolences to the family - Doug will be greatly missed. Javascript is required for the selection of a player. He was also the last active Bears player who played for the team with George Halas as the head coach. Doug was The man and always will be the Man. We have fond memories of watching him play at Shannock.God's Peace be with you. Copyright 2023 WLS-TV. It's funny how we strangers can call him Doug, but that's who he was to us. Family (1) Spouse Dana (? By the time Buffone wrapped up his brilliant career, he led all Bears linebackers with 24 career interceptions. Doug Sr was a man of honor and humor, and will be missed by many. 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. (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. , Buffone owned restaurants and was a lifelong entrepreneur, owning enterprises as varied as an embroidery and. By the time Buffone wrapped up his brilliant career, Buffone 's seasons... Go home century, it 's funny how we strangers can call him Doug, but that double... Bears postgame radio Show on WSCR-AM with former teammate Ed O'Bradovich and prayers to Doug 's passion for the,... Air ball., go big or go home heavily involved in producing included the Anderson. Became a fixture on Chicago sports and broadcasting game of football and the city of Chicago where found. Linebacker dies him and O'Bradovich after Bears games in my heart and mind.. Bear!... Years I got to know not only a Bears postgame radio Show on WSCR-AM with former teammate O'Bradovich! 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