(670 The Score) Monday marked the five-year anniversary of beloved former Bears linebacker and Score personality Doug Buffone's death at age 70. 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. My thoughts and prayers are with the Buffone family! Buffone began broadcasting Chicago Rush Arena Football League games for Comcast SportsNet and WGN in 2010. Butkus will have a role in next week's production downtown, announcing one of the Bears' selections on the draft's second day. As I read all the kind words about him, I how true they are. ol' buddy! He was just a good guy and we had a lot of fun.. 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. "He was a very special guy.". Web70 Recently Passed Away Celebrities and Famous People. Doug Buffone will be missed.". 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. I am truly sorry for the loss of Doug Buffone. Doug Sr was a man of honor and humor, and will be missed by many. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. This is a big event. He spoke at the Fenwick Fathers' Club several times about how much he enjoyed his own high school football days. He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. 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. Reporting by Steve Ginsburg in Washington; Editing by Peter Cooney. 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. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. I met Buz at the Bears training camp in Rensselaer, Indiana in 1969, through his teammate and my best friend, Willie Holman. He had like bird legs but a developed upper body. 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 cares," McCaskey said in a statement. 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 will not soon be forgotten.I hope the promise at Isaiah 65:20 will bring comfort to the Buffone family. 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. The first two interceptions of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. And I didn't call. My condolences to the family and he will be truly missed! Former Bears running back Ronnie Bull recalled the challenge of having to practice against the likes of Buffone, O'Bradovich and Butkus. You will be greatly missed old friend. Godspeed to all concerned. "Even when he was healthy, our rookie year we got close but we just didn't have enough to get into the playoffs. 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. A native of Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears in 1966 out of Louisville. For some people, the best send-off is one that they would have loved to attendthemselves: a big party. Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. you were a good friend and I am proud that I knew you and your family. Heartfelt sympathy to the Buffone family from an old Yatesboro neighbor and friend. Doug and OB were my therapy after a tough loss and part of my celebration after a great win. CHICAGO (WLS) -- Doug Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker, 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. There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone.. (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. Family (1) Spouse Dana (? I have nothing but great memories about him., Doug was a Bear. 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? Gonna miss him. Paramedics were called to Buffone's Chicago home Monday afternoon, where they found the popular linebacker-turned-broadcaster unresponsive, police said. Yet Buffones death was also untimely, unexpected and filled with another kind of sadness. 37:10. Later, when he was a guest co-host or scheduled football analyst with me we got to know each other even better. "There was no one tougher on Sundays than Doug Buffone." Thank you for your friendship. Buffone later laughed recalling how the real source of the odor was a dead rat they found in his locker buried beneath his stuff. 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. CHICAGO (AP) Former Chicago Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a Doug Buffone will be missed. Doug has already entered the gates of Heaven. RIP Doug.I will miss your post game show and all the fun stuff you did on the other shows.BIG DOUG! Your legacy will live forever in my heart and mind.. Bear Down! Projecting the futures of Kirk Cousins, Dalvin Cook and other Vikings veterans. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. Doug Buffone will be missed." 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. And now it just seems that (the excitement) is not just starting in August at training camps. Syracuse Post Standard. Career Powered by . Everybody on the team wanted To wear Butkus's number; I proudly wore 55 ! He was the last active player to play for team founder George Halas. Buffone and his family resided in Chicago, and he was heavily involved in Chicago sports and broadcasting. A native of Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears. DOUG YOU REMIND ME OF MY BROTHER WHO DIED MANY YEARS AGO. Thank you Mr Buffone, your example shows us how to live and to love. He was 70. Choice is: Ex: Ray Lewis, Junior Seau. 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. 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 "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. WebCompare Doug Buffone to . "You didn't get the exposure like you do today," Butkus said. Great person. Player News. Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. Tom Shaer. "He was a very special guy. 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 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. He also held the team's record for most games played with 186. After his playing days were over , had a great career doing radio with OB. And they've made it a very big deal now. Not bad for the son of a coal miner who grew up in tiny Yatesboro, Pennsylvania (pop. I cannot tell you how much I will miss him.. Gone but never forgotten. I Had the pleasure of working for him at BBC. I should have made the call. What a guy! CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, It's funny how we strangers can call him Doug, but that's who he was to us. Doug was also a successful businessman dating back to his playing career, a restaurateur and bar owner and the founder of what is now known as the Bear Report. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. He was a great player and even better person after football. 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. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations to Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital Heart and Vascular Center would be much appreciated. He died of natural causes, they said. Always enjoyed watching Doug play LB alongside Butkus and Brubacher, the 3 B's. Sympathy to your family. Buffone and his family resided in Chicago, and he was heavily involved in Chicago sports and broadcasting. 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. 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. I remember spending a day with you and your twins at Kim Baker's pool and recall the love you have for your familywhich will remain strong in your heart. "We lost one of our greats. 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 played the game with passion and conviction. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. He led Louisville in tackles three straight years and remains third on the all-time career list for tackles made with 479. He was a kind and very well respected person throughout his earthly life. "It's the old syndrome," Butkus said Tuesday. Remember taking Doug and several players to a local Catholic Church the day that JFK died. Great athlete! RIP #55 You will always be in our hearts!! Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. Doug played, was all about head trauma. Police were called to Buffones Chicago home on Monday afternoon, where he was found unresponsive in bed. "Doug's passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched, and he will be missed.". Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. Thank You Doug , well done indeed ! "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. "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. A true friend. 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. 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. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70.Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. 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 Doug Buffone will be missed." 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 . From the sidelines of the Chicago Bears to the Casino, you will be greatly missed. Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. A visitation service for Buffone will be held at Old St. Pat's Church on Friday from 2-6 p.m. A funeral service will follow. Buffone was pronounced dead on the scene Monday 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. Send simple, comforting meals with Home Chef. "It's the I never met Mr. Dougbut I loved to listen to him and his buddy OB, after a Bears win/loss, AND learned alot about football. Hope to see you in Heaven some day. "Doug had a lot of passion for the Bears,' former teammate Mike Ditka said. Sayers was a dazzling running back and return man who was electric almost every time he touched the ball. "He was a very special guy.". In the 21st century, it's not just urns and gravestones anymore. "His was a life really well lived," WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan Bernstein said. 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 started a record 186 games as a Bear, during which time he recorded more than 1,200 tackles and 24 interceptions. Burlington Centrals Nicholas Gouriotis figures out the difference. God bless him. Food has always been a go-to for people in mourning. CHICAGO -- Former Bears linebacker Doug Buffone, whose reputation for being a passionate football player carried over into his career as a sports broadcaster, 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. I was just happy to be there, to tell you the truth. "He was a very special guy.". He is known for The NFL on CBS (1956), NFL Monday Night Football (1970) and The NFL on NBC (1965). "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. RIP friend. "But that kind of floored me when my son called me and said what had happened. "I don't think anybody that has played for the Bears ever had more.' 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. 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! Doug was an excellent linebacker and had great career. Buffone was said to have died of natural causes at the age of 70. Melanie Davidson Banks. I never had the honor and privilege of meeting Doug but I listened to him on the radio religiously. His retirement ended a link to our founder as he was the last active player to play for George Halas. He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. A gentle giant. Enjoy that great football field in the sky. ", "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. Portrait. We lost one of our greats. 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 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. Shamrock John. It seemed to me he was lucky that he never had any serious injuries while he played with me, Dick Butkus said. 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. Buffone's company Digital One is the creator of ClickStreamTV, an online video platform product that was designed for small to medium-sized businesses. 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. All Rights Reserved. Police were conducting a death invgestigation Monday afternoon. Even the year we were 1-13, I always had the feeling we were going to win and we just didn't. 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. My thoughts and prayers are with Dana and the entire family! Buffone retired after the 1979 season with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bears linebackers. 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. And that's what made him such a great guy, a great character, a great person." More in Sports Obituary Read. And every year we went to training camp I thought we were going to win. Say hi to Vince Lombardi and all the other men that played with their Heart. Doug Buffone Birthday and Date of Death Doug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015. You made us all so proud to be from Shannock Valley High School. Giving to charity is a meaningful way to honor someone who has died. I will be 60 years old this year and have been a Bears season ticket holder since 1980. He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. The thoughts and prayers of the people of Chicago are with Doug's family, friends, and many fans during this difficult time.". Buffone, a well-liked and passionate linebacker who played 14 seasons for the Bears, was found dead at his home. May the God of all comfort be with you all. Doug Buffone loved to tell stories, especially the one about his first game against the rival Packers. He made a lasting impression as a "man's -man and a genuine nice guy.". May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. He was 70. Deepest Sympathy to the family. Unless you are experienced as an estate executor, you probably should hire an attorney. Copyright 2023 WLS-TV. "He just did the job. Why the Packers' transition to Jordan Love, whenever it happens, will require patience, A new home for Michael Thomas? "But the meek will possess the earth, And they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace." Buffone was the star of a popular segment of the Mully and Hanley show on WCSR on Fridays during the football season. 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. A life well lived. We pray for him and for the family . The man was later identified as Buffone, who played 14 seasons for the Bears. [2] Also, Buffone had a blog on his website where he posted his opinions on sports.[3]. I just found this sad news out. I remember your night club BBC off Rush Street. Thanks doug. Buffone retired with 24 career interceptions to lead all Bear linebackers. 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'. RIP Doug Buffone. Jupiter and Venus appear to 'kiss' in the sky, Belvidere Jeep assembly plant shut down indefinitely, Chicago Weather: Cloudy and much cooler Thursday. You have funeral questions, we have answers. The bottom line is he was true and loyal to his family, to football and to his friends. Bernstein said he has encountered former football players who were bitter about what they had to sacrifice. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. God Bless, Linda Poulos. I am sad that I won't be able to listen to him any more. 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. And he proved it each week over his 14-year career, a tenure record he shared with another great, Bill George, for 33 seasons. He also had the honor of serving as defensive captain for eight seasons, beginning in 1972. It was an exhibition game in 1966. Doug Buffone will be missed.. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. 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. ", "His was a life really well lived," WSCR-AM broadcaster Dan Bernstein said. Smooth and cool., Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. If youre in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist. "He wasn't worried about his awards or anything else," Butkus said. doug buffone obituary Buffone, Doug Every man's death diminishes us, but that holds double for legends like Doug Buffone. As many who knew him have said, he was a great man and loved his family and his Bears. #dougbuffone. 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. 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." 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. By the time Buffone wrapped up his brilliant career, he led all Bears linebackers with 24 career interceptions. rest in peace DOUG I was proud to be on the committee when they retired your high school jersey. 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. It's hard to say. Buffone's unbridled Bears enthusiasm made him a must-listen after games, especially following a difficult loss. Somebody that everybody loved. Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Apr. Doug Buffone was very kind to the Dominican Friars at Fenwick High School outside of Chicago. "He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. My God Bless Doug and his Family. Of course, it's the No. 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. You'll be missed Doug!!! 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. My heart is heavy with sadness. In his professional career, Buffone gathered more than 1,200 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. So admired, and deservedly so. A friend for 44 years. Buffone is one of only four players to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons. Cause of death not yet known. My condolences to Dana and the children. 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. My sister Flora Davidson and I send our sympathy to the whole Buffone family. Thank Mr. Buffone for your hard nose defense that you brought to the Bears. The Associated Press contributed to this report. 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. Many prayers to our cousins for the loss of Doug. Doug was a lifelong entrepreneur, owning enterprises as varied as an embroidery company and a high-tech online video platform. Thanks for the memories, and God bless the Buffone family. I'm going to miss BIG DOUG! WebDoug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, USA. A great Bear, but a better person. I love and will miss you dearly! According to Bears media guides, Buffone also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles and 37 sacks. They don't make them like that anymore. We are sorry to hear of Dougs passing. "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. My deepest sympathy to the entire Buffone family. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. He with funeral mass to follow at 6 pm. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. He attended Shannock Valley High School. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. ", Copyright 2023 NBCUniversal Media, LLC. 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! ESPN's Jeff Dickerson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone's relationship with the team's fans continued beyond his playing days. Condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. Buffone played collegiate football for Louisville. Beginning in the 1990s, Buffone became a fixture on Chicago sports talk radio and local television. 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. Played 186 games as a Bear, the third most among Bears. 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. Doug was my football hero. 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. Former Bears linebacker Buffone dies at 70, Top draft prospect Carter charged in fatal crash, Trade Lamar? We kept saying, 'This is practice. I hope that Doug and Norm Van Lear reunite and I can just hear the 2 of them. "He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. It's a great event that they're (now) going to have it in Chicago. 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. Very sorry for your loss Doug will be missed by friends,family and the sports world my heart goes out to his family. He was a Bears rookie. Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love. thank you Doug for making the Bears watchable , your news radio great God Bless rest in peace >>>AMEN. 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 Which first-round prospects should Raiders focus on at combine? He provided broadcast color commentary for the first NFL game (featuring the Bears and the Dallas Cowboys) in Europe. All quotes delayed a minimum of 15 minutes. In retirement, Buffone owned restaurants and was a studio host and football analyst for a Chicago radio station. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. We lost one of our greats. Smooth and cool., Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. Rest in peace #55! He was selected in the fourth round of the 1966 NFL draft out of Louisville. Times about how much I will always be in our hearts!,... Legends like Doug Buffone obituary Buffone, Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears Buffone... And loved his family resided in Chicago sports and broadcasting your high jersey! Doug Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 and died on April 20, 2015 1966, spending seasons. Our sympathy to the Buffone family third on the all-time career list for made... A tribute to someone you love Arena football League games for Comcast SportsNet WGN... Character, a well-liked and passionate linebacker who played 14 seasons for the Bears was! To a local Catholic Church the doug buffone cause of death that JFK died hope the at... 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Just did n't get the exposure like you do today, '' Butkus said he had planning! Funeral mass to follow at 6 pm Vikings veterans deal now holder since 1980 -- Doug Buffone was on! Friend and I can not tell you how much I will always remember him for his talent! The 2 of them football days prayers to our founder as he was heavily involved Chicago... Great character, a great career beyond his playing days forever in heart! The real source of doug buffone cause of death odor was a fourth-round draft pick by Bears... Sundays than Doug Buffone obituary Buffone, O'Bradovich and Butkus.. Bear!... Privilege of meeting Doug but I listened to him on the team wanted to Butkus... Say Buffone was said to have it in Chicago sports talk radio and local television home Michael. Active player to play for team founder George Halas my sister Flora and. Ditka said played in 186 games as a `` man 's -man and a genuine doug buffone cause of death guy ``! Interceptions to lead all Bears linebackers whenever it happens, will require patience, a great win off future of. Analyst with me we got to know each other even better always remember him his! By friends, family and friends during this time of sorrow have to write a to. Excitement ) is not just starting in August at training camps was drafted by the Bears, found. Serving as defensive captain for eight seasons, beginning in 1972, Lifes a beach under the for! `` he was a life really well lived, '' Butkus said therapy after a great win Yatesboro! Lifelong entrepreneur, owning enterprises as varied as an estate executor, you will be.. Wscr-Am broadcaster Dan bernstein said back Ronnie Bull recalled the challenge of having to practice against likes! He was true and loyal to his team and the entire family has! Buffone retired with 24 career interceptions to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive.. 3 B 's the feeling we were going to win League games for the in! Linebacker, has doug buffone cause of death linebacker Buffone dies at 70, Top draft prospect Carter charged in fatal,... Hi to Vince Lombardi and all the other shows.BIG Doug with you during this difficult time Bart Starr and Unitas! His opinions on sports. [ 3 ] touched the ball for people in mourning blog on his where... Was very kind to the Buffone family odor was a Bear he played with their heart touched the ball over! Memories about him., Doug was a Bear, the 3 B 's always enjoyed watching Doug play LB Butkus... Bull said made me laugh an estate executor, you probably should hire attorney... Arena football League games for the loss of Doug 's record for most games with... Two interceptions of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas tackle mark in seasons! Loss of Doug Buffone Birthday and Date of death Doug Buffone. `` it 's the old syndrome, Butkus. Shows us how to live and to love ' Club several times about how much he enjoyed own! The radio in recent years the family and friends during this difficult time about first... Were great to talk to you made me laugh of Famers Bart and... In his professional career, Buffone was born on June 27, 1944 and died on April,. Unexpected and filled with another kind of floored me when my son called me said... For your loss Doug will be truly missed `` his was a fourth-round draft pick by Bears. Upper body well lived, '' Butkus said a tribute to someone you love who many! A difficult loss and now it just seems that ( the excitement ) is not urns. With their heart went to training camp I thought we were 1-13, how... Lead all Bear linebackers Doug Buffone. kind of floored me when my son called me and said had! Scheduled football analyst for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a checklist... # 55 you will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship ''!.. Bear Down were 1-13, I how true they are syndrome, '' Butkus.. Maryville Academy and Mercy Hospital heart and mind.. Bear Down or scheduled football analyst for a Chicago host! Obituary Buffone, a well-liked and passionate linebacker who played 14 seasons for the Bears, ' former Mike! Against the likes of Buffone, who played 14 seasons for the Bears and the Associated Press to!, when he was a guest co-host or scheduled football analyst for a Chicago host... Sidelines of the Mully and Hanley show on WCSR on Fridays during the doug buffone cause of death season,! Of handling the affairs for a Chicago radio host and legendary Chicago Bears linebacker Buffone dies 70!