“American Idol” contestant Doug Kiker, affectionately known as “The Singing Garbage Man,” passed away unexpectedly Monday at the age of 32.
Doug’s sisters, Angela Evans and Donna Kiker Carrillos-Ramirez, announced his death Wednesday on Facebook, and the singer’s ex fiance Valerie Cook, brother William and mother Joyce confirmed his death to TMZ. Cook said she was grieved by the fact that their children had lost their father.
A GoFundMe page created by Evans said the family needed financial assistance to see him laid to rest. Kiker’s rendition of Rascal Flatts’ “Bless the Broken Road” on Season 18 of “American Idol” brought Katy Perry to tears and advanced him to the Hollywood round.
His official cause of death was not revealed.
Kiker went on to perform a rendition of Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” on the competition show before he was eliminated.
Evans shared a statement on the crowdfunding page, saying, “This was completely unexpected and we are completely unprepared and are gonna need a little help getting him home from Denver, Colorado and being able to give the memorial that not only he but anyone deserves.” However, she did not provide any details regarding the circumstances leading up to his death.
The GoFundMe page described the fallen star as a “beloved son, brother, father and friend.” Over $1,400 has been raised by the time of publication.
Kiker touched many lives with his music and his sudden death left his family reeling
Evans shared a heartfelt message saying “he was sooo loved and will be missed by so many!” and paid tribute to Kiker’s talents by writing, “Your singing with the Angel’s now Bubba Please pray for our family as we go threw this very difficult time.” (RELATED: K-Pop, R&B Star Wheesung Found Dead At 42)
Doug is survived by two children he had with ex-fiancée Valerie Cook.
This article was originally published at dailycaller.com
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