LEGENDARY COACH MIKE DITKA RETURNS HOME TO CHICAGO
In a triumphant return, the one and only Mike Ditka, the iconic Chicago Bears coach, has finally come back to the city he loves, after a lengthy sojourn in Florida. The tough-as-nails football legend, who has battled a stroke, heart attack, and subsequent convalescence, is now back in his beloved Chicago, and he’s got plenty to say.
"I’m finally home, and it feels amazing!" Ditka exclaimed in an exclusive interview with Sneed, beaming with joy. "This city is my home, and I love it more than words can express." The coach, who was born in Pennsylvania and raised in Pittsburgh, has always considered Chicago his true home, and it’s clear that the feeling is mutual.
Ditka, who quietly slipped into town with his wife, Diana, a few days ago, is thrilled to be back in the city that has been his lifeblood for so long. "It’s the people I miss the most," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "The people, the energy, the vibe – it’s all just so incredible." As he settled into his new condo apartment in the same Gold Coast building where the couple had lived for years, Ditka couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over him.
The new Ditka digs are just a stone’s throw away from the couple’s beloved, now-defunct Ditka’s eatery, where they held court daily, surrounded by friends, family, and adoring fans. Although the restaurant may be gone, Ditka’s love for the city remains strong. "Look, this COVID-19 thing was historic, but when all is said and done, it was a great run," he said, reflecting on the closure of his restaurant. "But things wear out after a time, and it was good while it lasted."
After selling their apartment and moving to Florida, the Ditkas thought they had left Chicago behind for good. But as it turns out, they just couldn’t stay away. When Sneed contacted Diana Ditka on October 18 to wish Mike a happy 85th birthday, she hinted that they might have some news to share soon. And now, it’s clear that they’ve made the decision to return to the city they love.
Ditka’s health has been a concern in recent years, but he’s still going strong, despite some tough times. "My husband is not in hospice," Diana assured Sneed, although caretakers are on hand to help with his needs. Diana often finishes Mike’s sentences when his memory stumbles, but it’s clear that the coach is still sharp as a tack.
As the Ditkas settle into their new life back in Chicago, they’re enjoying the little things – like watching TV and enjoying the warmth of their new home. And although Ditka’s iconic pork chop may be gone, he’s still got a taste for the finer things in life. Sneed has it on good authority that a delicious delivery from Freddy’s, one of the coach’s favorite eateries, was dispatched to the Ditka digs on Monday – a mouth-watering Chicken Limone that’s sure to hit the spot.
As the City of Big Shoulders welcomes back its beloved coach, one thing is clear: Mike Ditka is home to stay, and he’s got plenty to say about it.
