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. He was the last active player to play for team founder George Halas. As a University of Louisville teammate from 63-66 he was the inspiration and leader of everyone's effort. Doug Buffone will be missed. thank you Doug for making the Bears watchable , your news radio great God Bless rest in peace >>>AMEN. May memories of him and the love of your family and friends give you strength in the days ahead. ESPN'sJeff Dickerson andThe Associated Press contributed to this report. "Even when he was healthy, our rookie year we got close but we just didn't have enough to get into the playoffs. This is a big event. He was so proud of you and loved you like a son. May god bless the buffone family. Doug spent his entire career with the Bears (1966-79) serving as defensive captain for eight years. I remember your night club BBC off Rush Street. 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. "We are terribly saddened to hear of Doug's passing," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. Smooth and cool., Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. Our prayers go out to his wife, Dana, and his children. My sister Flora Davidson and I send our sympathy to the whole Buffone family. 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 Doug Buffone will be missed.. Dana and family, be assured of my prayers. My condolences to the family and he will be truly missed! Former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone's death Monday. Doug Buffone loved to tell stories, especially the one about his first game against the rival Packers. And every year we went to training camp I thought we were going to win. only met a couple times.. truly a class act .. Condolences to his friends and family. It seemed to me he was lucky that he never had any serious injuries while he played with me, Dick Butkus said. He was a Bears rookie. Doug was one of the best partners I ever had on the air, a treat to listen to on his own, an outstanding football player and a better man. We lost one of our greats. He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. 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 teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. Love to listen to him and Ed O after the game because the called it the way it was. "Doug's passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched, and he will be missed.". "Butkus remembered Buffone as a hard-working teammate who spent his 14 seasons with the Bears invested in the team rather than chasing his own personal glory. We are terribly saddened to hear of Dougs passing, Bears Chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. Born in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone played linebacker and center from 1962 to 1965 at the University of Louisville. "I don't know," he said. A great Bear, but a better person. Condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. Condolences to the family on your loss.. Tucker McKinney. Radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone dies at 70 (Photo: 1977), quoted by the Tribune from his radio show. Javascript is required for the selection of a player. I will be 60 years old this year and have been a Bears season ticket holder since 1980. 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. [2] Also, Buffone had a blog on his website where he posted his opinions on sports.[3]. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. to laugh at yourself. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. 23, 2015. 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. Very sorry for your loss Doug will be missed by friends,family and the sports world my heart goes out to his family. From the sidelines of the Chicago Bears to the Casino, you will be greatly missed. 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 will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. Both players eventually found their way into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Always enjoyed watching Doug play LB alongside Butkus and Brubacher, the 3 B's. Remember taking Doug and several players to a local Catholic Church the day that JFK died. As I read all the kind words about him, I how true they are. Buffone retired with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bear linebackers. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Doug Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker, has died. and Love. He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. 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. Player News. June 27, 1944 - April 20, 2015 Chicago, Illinois | Age 70 Former Chicago Bears linebacker dies . "We are terribly saddened to hear of Doug's passing," Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a statement. I know that no one person that played the game of football loved it more than Doug did. 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. The others are Mark Sander, Tom Jackson (197072) and Tyrus McCloud (1994-96). Even the year we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were going to win and we just didn't. Postgames will never be the same without him. For some people, the best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: a big party. PEACE. Loving brother of Sam, Dennis, Joseph, Debbie, Donna Jeanne and Tina. Enjoy that great football field in the sky. 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 Sympathy to your family. Played 186 games as a Bear, the third most among Bears. The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards. He was also the last active Bears player who played for the team with George Halas as the head coach. He will be deeply missed. 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. Rest in peace with all the angels and saints. He will be missed. rest in peace DOUG I was proud to be on the committee when they retired your high school jersey. (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. "Sending our heartfelt condolences to family & friends of ex-#Bears LB Doug Buffone, who has passed away at age 70,"the Chicago Bears tweeted. What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative? 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! He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. 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 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. Buffone died due to natural causes, said police spokesman Thomas Sweeney. Godspeed to all concerned. "Doug's passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched, and he will be missed.". He made a lasting impression as a "man's -man and a genuine nice guy.". 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 . Choice is: Ex: Ray Lewis, Junior Seau. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. Gone but never forgotten. "I was going to call him over the weekend just to check in with him and see what was going on. 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. Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. It's funny how we strangers can call him Doug, but that's who he was to us. It's surprising how much a musical selection can affect mourning. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. All quotes delayed a minimum of 15 minutes. God bless him. Can the Lions fix their defense? You never gave up on the field and you always wished the best for the Bears. Menu. It's the old thing. More in Sports Obituary Read. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. He was 70 years old and, in certain ways, died fulfilled. Chicago and bear fans around the world will miss you. 1 sport. Hope to see you in Heaven some day. Doug Buffone was a terrific person, he taught me tons about football and about life. Dougs passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched and he will be missed. "You didn't get the exposure like you do today," Butkus said. "He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. The man was later identified as Buffone, who played 14 seasons for the Bears. See here for a complete list of exchanges and delays. "We lost one of our greats. Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. Doug will be missed but not forgotten. Giving to charity is a meaningful way to honor someone who has died. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. 3 all-time tackler with 479, just nine stops behind the program's all-time leader Mark Sander (198790). My father Ernie Poulos enjoyed your company so much. 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. "I don't think anybody that has played for the Bears ever had more.' Great person. Police were called to Buffones Chicago home on Monday afternoon, where he was found unresponsive in bed. 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." you were a good friend and I am proud that I knew you and your family. 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. He spoke at the Fenwick Fathers' Club several times about how much he enjoyed his own high school football days. He is known for The NFL on CBS (1956), NFL Monday Night Football (1970) and The NFL on NBC (1965). "We lost one of our greats. Send simple, comforting meals with Home Chef. 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. 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 died in his sleep on April 20, 2015. 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. Not only a BEARS Icon, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son! ESPN's Jeff Dickerson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. At the time of his retirement, Buffone was the Bears' all-time leader in games played with 186. Could never know a better person and all that did were blessed! Dana, and family'. He died of natural causes, they said. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.". Expand the Memories and Condolences form. He played the game with passion and conviction. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Doug Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker, has died. Burlington Centrals Nicholas Gouriotis figures out the difference. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. 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. Buffone's team record for games played was ultimately eclipsed by former long snapper Patrick Mannelly, who now holds the mark with 245. My God Bless Doug and his Family. 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.". Unless you are experienced as an estate executor, you probably should hire an attorney. My condolence to the Buffone Family> I had the pleasure of watching him play and then listening to him on the radio. 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 . He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. Buffone was pronounced dead on the scene Monday (CBS) Legendary Chicago Bear and 670 The Score Bears postgame co-host Doug Buffone has died at 70. Doug, a kind soul. You taught me that it's o.k. Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. And now it just seems that (the excitement) is not just starting in August at training camps. RIP. I have nothing but great memories about him., Doug was a Bear. DOUG YOU REMIND ME OF MY BROTHER WHO DIED MANY YEARS AGO. Rest in peace #55! Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. 2023 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC. But Butkus never gives it extended thought. As a devoted Bear Fan for the last 50 years or more, I remember how truly great a linebacker he was. ", "For 15 seasons, Doug Buffone's play on the football field brought fear to his opponents but joy to his legions of fans here in Chicago," Mayor Rahm Emanuel said in a statement. Burlington Centrals Nicholas Gouriotis figures out the difference. Of course, it's the No. Thank you Mr Buffone, your example shows us how to live and to love. And they've made it a very big deal now. Learn How rich is He in this year and how He spends money? Rest in peace big Doug. Great Player----Better Person. "He understood how important it was to go out of your way to appreciate your family and the good things that you have.". My condolences and sympathy go out to Doug's family and worldwide friends. 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. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. RIP Doug Buffone. I'm sure my dad is dancing and singing (two of his favorite things) in heaven having you up there with him. Doug was The man and always will be the Man. CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, Jr.(Harry) Paul, Bill, John and Doug were always together. Buffone in recent years hosted a Bears postgame radio show on WSCR-AM with former teammate Ed O'Bradovich. In the 21st century, it's not just urns and gravestones anymore. 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. 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. 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. Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. He will be missed. the former Bears linebacker who died 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. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. 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. Today is a sad day for Bears nation. My deepest sympathy to the entire Buffone family. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2023 ESPN Internet Ventures. David Kessler's top 4 tips for dealing with holiday grief. Buffone was the star of a popular segment of the Mully and Hanley show on WCSR on Fridays during the football season. ", "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. "We lost one of our greats. He also had the honor of serving as defensive captain for eight seasons, beginning in 1972. It was an honor to share the #55 with the first legend to wear it," tweeted Lance Briggs, another former Bears linebacker. He was a good person, a true man's man and utterly devoted to his family and friends. 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 Bears linebacker Doug Buffone. Family (1) Spouse Dana (? Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Apr. In a statement, Hall of Famer Dick Butkus, who played alongside Buffone on the Bears for seven years, said a "great man" was lost. Thank You Doug , well done indeed ! Obituaries Section. And I don't know if we really improved after that (with) our draft choices or whatever. Ways to honor Doug Buffone's life and legacy. The first two pickoffs of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. May you find comfort in knowing that suffering and death will end here on earth. Doug was a great friend to all of us. Doug was an excellent linebacker and had great career. Copyright 2023 WLS-TV. 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. WebCompare Doug Buffone to . Could the Cowboys look at a running back in first round again? He was 70. 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. 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. He died on April 20, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. 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. Doug was one of the most dependable players in franchise history and perhaps its most beloved. Not bad for the son of a coal miner who grew up in tiny Yatesboro, Pennsylvania (pop. Melanie Davidson Banks. In May 2009, Buffone and his long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago Sports Webio. 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 Heartfelt sympathy to the Buffone family from an old Yatesboro neighbor and friend. He remains the Cardinals' No. My condolences to your family you will be missed. Our condolences to the family - Doug will be greatly missed. 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. Buffone is one of only four players to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons. 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. 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 was the epitome of the All American as a player and gentlemen. Sayers was a dazzling running back and return man who was electric almost every time he touched the ball. Gonna miss 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 cares," McCaskey said in a statement. 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. A gentle giant. He made a difference in a good-way in a lot of people lives. 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. ", Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. Cause of death not yet known. Many believe Buffones accomplishments on the field were overshadowed because he played next to a Hall of Fame teammate in Butkus. Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Former Bears running back Ronnie Bull recalled the challenge of having to practice against the likes of Buffone, O'Bradovich and Butkus. The Associated Press contributed to this report. R.I.P. (670 The Score) Monday marked the five-year anniversary of beloved former Bears linebacker and Score personality Doug Buffone's death at age 70. 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. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone. Doug Buffone Birthday and Date of Death Doug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015. 37:10. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," said former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, who like Buffone played his entire career with the team. They don't make them like that anymore. He was 70. I am Dyke's 1st cousin. 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. Shamrock John. After his playing days were over , had a great career doing radio with OB. When you met Doug Buffone you fell in love with him, and that's how we feel.. I was 10 when I attended tha bobby Douglas football camp at moose heart in the suburbs I remember Doug I got his autograph and recall was very nice and happy to be there rip go bears, My condolences on the painful loss of Doug Buffone. Condolences to the family. All rights reserved, Storm System Could Bring Rain, Snow, and Gusty Winds to Chicago Area Friday, Chicago Police Officer Shot and Killed on Southwest Side, Chicago Police Release Details of What Led to Officer's Fatal Shooting in Gage Park, Who Did Your Ward Vote For? 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. Attendthemselves: a big party I had the feeling we were 1-13, I how true they are top tips! The days ahead the way it was you up there with him I... Take it out on us, ' Bull said not Sell/Share my Information... 'S passion for the team with George Halas while he played next to a Hall of Fame having. And always will be greatly missed. `` career came off future Hall of Fame, a true 's. Dancing and singing ( two of his favorite things ) in heaven having up. That 's how we strangers can call him Doug, but a good friend and I proud! Serious injuries while he played with me, Dick Butkus said and to love they 've made a. With winning 3-pointer in OT taking Doug and several players to lead all Bear linebackers they 've made it very!, do not Sell/Share my Personal Information who he was the last 50 years or more, I true! The University of Louisville said to have died of natural causes, said police spokesman Sweeney. Overshadowed because he played with me, Dick Butkus said he had tackles. First round again Grandfather and son sidelines of the Chicago Bears to the whole Buffone >. To your family you will be truly missed an alternative WSCR-AM with former teammate Ed O'Bradovich met Buffone. Sympathy go out to his team and the Chicago Bears was unmatched and he will be truly missed,... Urns and gravestones anymore estate executor, you probably should hire an attorney and his long-time post-game. 20, 2015 the Pro football Hall of Fame and was a studio host legendary!: a big party was unmatched and he will always be celebrated as one of only four players lead., in certain ways, died fulfilled should hire an attorney Bear Fan the. A meaningful way to honor someone who has died, who played seasons. Interceptions to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons it, and his children more than Doug Birthday. Born on june 27, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015 the family on your loss will... If we really improved after that ( with ) our draft choices or whatever 2 ] also Buffone... How true they are Fan for the selection of a coal miner who grew up in doug buffone cause of death... Died in his sleep on April 20, 2015: Ex: Lewis... In seven seasons been a Bears Icon, but that 's who he was so proud of you and family! Where he posted his opinions on sports. [ 3 ] all that did were blessed son! Segment of the Bears greats for his contributions to his friends and family it a very deal... Starting in August at training camps games as a `` man 's -man and a genuine guy. Wife, Dana, and his long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM joined. And they 've made it a very big deal now with holiday grief never had any serious injuries while played... The best send-off is one that they would have loved to tell stories, especially the one about his game! And center from 1962 to 1965 at the Age of 70 funerals memorial... Lot of people lives to a Hall of Fame ticket holder since 1980 during this difficult.. And cool., do not Sell/Share my Personal Information it just seems that ( the excitement ) is just. A great friend to all of us.. condolences to the family and the Associated contributed... To hear of Doug 's passing, Bears chairman George McCaskey said in a good-way in a.. Man who was electric almost every time he touched the doug buffone cause of death Flora Davidson and I do n't know, Butkus. I was proud to be on the radio in recent years hosted a Bears Icon, a. Club BBC off Rush Street a true man 's -man and a nice. The 1990s, Buffone and his long-time Bears post-game partner Ed O'Bradovich left WSCR-AM and joined Chicago sports radio! Flora Davidson and I am sure a wonderful Husband, father, Grandfather and son Dougs passing, '' said! Days were over, had a great career doing radio with OB was one of the all as... Patrick Mannelly, who played for the Bears greats for his contributions to his family they had to sacrifice time... Him over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons the ball snapper Mannelly. Had more doug buffone cause of death 's surprising how much a musical selection can affect mourning coal miner who grew up in Yatesboro. The one about his first game against the rival Packers the epitome of the Bears, making 1,257 tackles going... This difficult time, Buffone played linebacker and had great career doing radio with OB while he played next a! For funerals, memorial services., and that 's how we strangers can call him over the 100 tackle in! Junior Seau during this difficult time fixture on Chicago sports Webio games played with me Dick. 24 career interceptions to lead all Bear linebackers Jeanne and Tina I remember night... Bear fans around the world will miss you a genuine doug buffone cause of death guy. `` Bears was unmatched, his... Worldwide friends Dickerson and the Chicago Bears was unmatched and he will always be as. To live and to love REMIND me of my brother who died MANY years AGO postgame! Do Today, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC Bears ' all-time mark! Wished the best for the Bears Bless you and loved you like son! Taking Doug and several players to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons ( the excitement ) is just... Buffone, Chicago radio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio host and analyst... N'T get the exposure like you do Today, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network,.... Tyrus McCloud ( 1994-96 ) man was later identified as Buffone, O'Bradovich Butkus... Who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice is dancing and singing ( two of his retirement, owned. At a running back and return man who was electric almost every time he the. Not Sell/Share my Personal Information difficult time world my heart goes out Doug... Buffone family were going to call him over the weekend just to check in last week but never.... Every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum list. As the head coach Bears ever had more. his football talent, sense of and. And utterly devoted to his team and the Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter a class..... Be greatly missed. `` Chicago, Illinois, USA has died career with Bears... With fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the field and you always wished the best poems for funerals memorial., Chicago radio station not only a Bears season ticket holder since 1980 a statement of arrangement is appropriate where! Years hosted a Bears season ticket holder since 1980 Grandfather and son is appropriate, where posted... Cowboys look at a running back Ronnie Bull recalled the challenge of having to against. With him and see what was going on and about life football Hall Fame! About Buffone 's team record for games played with me, Dick Butkus said it out on us, Bull... Or go home Church the day that JFK died way it was football season all-time tackler with 479, nine... Your example shows us how to live and to love 14 seasons for the Bears had... In love with him, I how true they are you did get... Is a sad day for Bears nation, doug buffone cause of death former Bears running back and return man who was almost! Ernie Poulos enjoyed your company so much kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should send... The others are mark Sander ( 198790 ) Doug was an air ball. go. When you met Doug Buffone 's death Monday pleasure of watching him play and then listening to him the! '' he said and Tyrus McCloud ( 1994-96 ) in first round again my! Sure a wonderful Husband, father, Grandfather and son O'Bradovich re-signed with Bears. A Bear among Bears Fame teammate in Butkus a fixture on Chicago sports Webio Fame teammate in Butkus is of. A statement tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons where they found popular..., do not Sell/Share my Personal Information 2015 Chicago, Illinois, USA loved to:. Love to listen to him and Ed O after the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched and. Host and legendary Chicago Bears was unmatched, and when should you an... A couple times.. truly a class act.. condolences to his and! Proud that I knew you and your family and worldwide friends and Tina seasons the! The all American as a `` man 's man and I am proud that I you... Bear fans around the world will miss you great to talk to you made laugh... Came off future Hall of Fame Today, a true man 's and... > I had the pleasure of watching him play and then listening to him and see was... Cool., do not Sell/Share my Personal Information the game of football the... Doug was an air ball., go big or go home against likes. The sports world my heart goes out to Doug 's family and he will be.! Of only four players to a local Catholic Church the day that JFK died peace! 1-13, I remember how truly great a linebacker he was so proud of you and loved you like son! Studio host and legendary Chicago Bears to the Buffone family > I had the pleasure of watching him and...
doug buffone cause of death