And yet, somehow, someway, neither player ever saw the postseason with some of the Bears' potential momentum slowed by a pair of knee injuries suffered by Sayers. Born in Yatesboro, Pennsylvania, Buffone played linebacker and center from 1962 to 1965 at the University of Louisville. "We lost one of our greats. FYI the boy could dance.". 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. 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'. He was selected in the fourth round of the 1966 NFL draft out of Louisville. His retirement ended a link to our founder as he was the last active player to play for George Halas. RIP Doug Buffone. He will be missed. He was 70 years old and, in certain ways, died fulfilled. Melanie Davidson Banks. GOD Bless you all. Love to listen to him and Ed O after the game because the called it the way it was. 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. 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 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. And I didn't call. Sayers was a dazzling running back and return man who was electric almost every time he touched the ball. Not bad for the son of a coal miner who grew up in tiny Yatesboro, Pennsylvania (pop. I love and will miss you dearly! "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. "I don't know," he said. our prays are with you. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. "I was going to call him over the weekend just to check in with him and see what was going on. When I was a little football manager at SVHS, Doug made me feel important to the team. And he proved it each week over his 14-year career, a tenure record he shared with another great, Bill George, for 33 seasons. A great Bear, but a better person. Number 55 is officially retired.Rest in peace,Doug. I am Dyke's 1st cousin. and Love. Thank you Mr Buffone, your example shows us how to live and to love. At Louisville, Buffone played center and linebacker for coach Frank Camp. Condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. Doug will be fondly remembered through many recaptures of the lives he touched. 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 understood how important it was to go out of your way to appreciate your family and the good things that you have.". They don't make them like that anymore. Buffone was the star of a popular segment of the Mully and Hanley show on WCSR on Fridays during the football season. "He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears' greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. Cause of death not yet known. "I will always remember him for his football talent, sense of humor and enduring friendship," Butkus said. Hub. God Bless his soul and now eternal life through Jesus Christ. You will be greatly missed old friend. Dana and family, be assured of my prayers. See here for a complete list of exchanges and delays. It's funny how we strangers can call him Doug, but that's who he was to us. You never gave up on the field and you always wished the best for the Bears. 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. "Today is a sad day for Bears nation," former Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher posted on Twitter. My condolence to the Buffone Family> I had the pleasure of watching him play and then listening to him on the radio. "Doug's passion for the game of football and the Chicago Bears was unmatched, and he will be missed.". (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. Rest in peace #55! His earlier misses? "One of the most memorable drafts in Bears history came 50 years ago, a 20-player haul that was defined by the two players taken at the top of the first round with Butkus selected third overall and running back Gale Sayers taken with the very next pick in the round.Butkus was named to the Pro Bowl after his first eight seasons, a vicious and powerful playmaker on defense. Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Apr. (Reuters) - Doug Buffone, a linebacker who played 14 seasons for the National Football Leagues Chicago Bears before retiring in 1980 as the franchises all-time leader in games played, died on Monday at the age of 70, the team said. Doug played, was all about head trauma. Great person. ", Oswego Easts Jehvion Starwood steps up with winning 3-pointer in OT. Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone's relationship with the team's fans continued beyond his playing days. Doug Buffone will be missed.". A man who had no problem talking about covering himself in deer urine or how he conversed with extraterrestrials. As a University of Louisville teammate from 63-66 he was the inspiration and leader of everyone's effort. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Offering my sincere condolences. Buffone started a record 186 games as a Bear, during which time he recorded more than 1,200 tackles and 24 interceptions. Discover Doug Buffone's Biography, Age, Height, Physical Stats, Dating/Affairs, Family and career updates. Say hi to Vince Lombardi and all the other men that played with their Heart. (2Cor.1:3). He was the last active player to play for team founder George Halas. 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 He will always be celebrated as one of the Bears greats for his contributions to his team and the fans who loved him. My thoughts and prayers are with the Buffone family! Dougie, you were a great teammate." "He was a very special guy. Great player, sportscaster and Chicagoan. 500) as one of seven children. Don't take it out on us,' Bull said. 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. May you find comfort in knowing that suffering and death will end here on earth. Buffone was pronounced dead on the scene Monday A friend for 44 years. The man was later identified as Buffone, who played 14 seasons for the Bears. Over the years I got to know not only the football player, but the Man. But Butkus never gives it extended thought. "He was a very special guy.". May god bless the buffone 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.". "We lost one of our greats. Search by Name. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. "You didn't get the exposure like you do today," Butkus said. What a guy! 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. He had 1,257 tackles, going over the 100 tackle mark in seven seasons. with funeral mass to follow at 6 pm. My condolences and sympathy go out to Doug's family and worldwide friends. Not only a BEARS Icon, but a good man and I am sure a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and son! 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. You'll be missed Doug!!! Your legacy will live forever in my heart and mind.. Bear Down! I cannot tell you how much I will miss him.. 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. Grief researchers say holding that missing funeral service, even a year or more later, can still help us heal. He was a kind and very well respected person throughout his earthly life. Buffone's company Digital One is the creator of ClickStreamTV, an online video platform product that was designed for small to medium-sized businesses. Buffone played in 186 games for the Bears, making 1,257 tackles and going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. At the time of his retirement, Buffone was the Bears' all-time leader in games played with 186. Later, when he was a guest co-host or scheduled football analyst with me we got to know each other even better. I was fortunate enough to have Doug as a mentor, teammate, & friend at the University of Louisville. Sincerely, Marilyn Davis. I appreciated his honesty and knowledge and just want to say thank you Big Doug. Always enjoyed watching Doug play LB alongside Butkus and Brubacher, the 3 B's. 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. One time for Doug Buffone! (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. Butkus said he had been planning to call Buffone to check in last week but never did. Beyond my incredible respect for him he was a guy I loved, just like everybody I know who ever met him. Buffone is one of only four players to lead UofL in tackles for three consecutive seasons. Buffone's 14 seasons in Chicago are tied for second most in club history. As I read all the kind words about him, I how true they are. "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 kept saying, 'This is practice. Bears chairman George McCaskey noted that Buffone's relationship with the team's fans continued beyond his playing days. He was a great player and even better person after football. I have nothing but great memories about him., Doug was a Bear. "But that kind of floored me when my son called me and said what had happened. Copyright 2023 WLS-TV. He was also the last active Bears player who played for the team with George Halas as the head coach. What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative? A Chicago great. David Kessler's top 4 tips for dealing with holiday grief. Doug, a kind soul. Buffone died due to natural causes, said police spokesman Thomas Sweeney. 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. It was my privilege to know Doug for 32 years, going back to when he owned Doug Buffone's Bear Report. You nick named me "sugar bear" and I accepted it. Doug Buffone died in his sleep on April 20, 2015. 2023 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC. #bearslegend #55. 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 Former Bears middle linebacker Brian Urlacher tweeted about Buffone's death Monday. So admired, and deservedly so. You have funeral questions, we have answers. Doug rest in peace met you twice you were great to talk to you made me laugh. He teamed with fellow ex-Bears great Ed O'Bradovich on the radio in recent years. "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. The first two pickoffs of his career came off future Hall of Famers Bart Starr and Johnny Unitas. His rebound downs Marian Catholic. Menu. Played 186 games as a Bear, the third most among Bears. Adored his children and his Dana. He died of natural causes, they said. One was an air ball., Go big or go home. My deepest sympathy to the entire Buffone family. Tom Shaer. The Associated Press. My thoughts and prayers are with Dana and the entire family! And I think this is going to help the whole situation. He led Louisville in tackles three straight years and remains third on the all-time career list for tackles made with 479. Javascript is required for the selection of a player. Other shows Buffone was involved in producing included The Neal Anderson Show for WBBM-AM, and The Mike Ditka Show for WSCR-AM. I want to extend my warm wishes to Doug's family for comfort and hope his love will keep you all forever. Just a great guy. A native of Yatesboro, Pa., Buffone was a fourth-round draft pick by the Bears in 1966 out of Louisville. Thanks doug. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. You taught me that it's o.k. My condolences to Dana and the children. Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. Doug, God has brought you home for the rest and comfort of a life well lived. I remember your night club BBC off Rush Street. Many believe Buffones accomplishments on the field were overshadowed because he played next to a Hall of Fame teammate in Butkus. Doug Buffone will be missed.. the former Bears linebacker who died April 20th at age 70 of natural causes. Police News Affairs said he was pronounced dead on the scene. The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards. Send simple, comforting meals with Home Chef. Enjoy that great football field in the sky. Even though we met only twice, you treated me like we were life-long friends. He finished every time., Lifes a beach under the basket for Lemonts Miles Beachum. My heart is heavy with sadness. I just found this sad news out. WebCompare Doug Buffone to . R.I.P. My prayers and condolences for his family and dear friends. He also had 10 fumble recoveries, nine forced fumbles, 37 sacks and 1,257 tackles, going over the 100-tackle mark in seven seasons. He died on April 20, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Expand the Memories and Condolences form. To plant trees in memory, please visit the. Enjoy heaven with Sweetness, Gale, and Papa Bear. Giving to charity is a meaningful way to honor someone who has died. He was a first cousin to my mother Marjorie Harland(Yanni). 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 the old thing. Our sincere condolences to the Buffone family. 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. RIP Our prayers to your family! And I don't know if we really improved after that (with) our draft choices or whatever. Doug and OB were my therapy after a tough loss and part of my celebration after a great win. Postgames will never be the same without him. I Had the pleasure of working for him at BBC. Can the Lions fix their defense? Doug was the man. 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