Bruce DeHaven, who first coached the Buffalo Bills special teams from 1987 - 1999, passed away at the age of 68 on December 27 of prostate cancer at his home in Orchard Park, New York.
He returned to coach the special teams from 2010 - 2012, but he’ll most be remembered for his work during the golden era of Bills football.
DeHaven was also the special teams coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, Seattle Seahawks, and most recently, the Carolina Panthers. He made the playoffs with three other franchises outside of the Bills.
Beyond his keen sense for coaching special teams units, DeHaven was widely known as a kind, empathetic man.
The last sympathy card I received when Allen died came from Bruce DeHaven. I'll never forget his words. Condolences to the DeHaven family. pic.twitter.com/FgKEH0W4hL
— Lisa Wilson (@lisabellwilson) December 28, 2016
I'll never cover somebody who's more fascinated by journalism than Bruce DeHaven. He read everything and loved discussing it. I'll miss him.
— Tim Graham (@ByTimGraham) December 28, 2016
Bruce DeHaven also was the guiding force behind Scott Norwood's recent re-emergence. Bruce craved closure and happiness for Scott.
— Tim Graham (@ByTimGraham) December 28, 2016
The Bills and NFL community will certainly miss DeHaven.