Douglas Kiker, a former contestant on “American Idol” who was known as the “Singing Garbage Man,” has died at the age of 32, according to his family.
“It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce the passing of my brother Douglas Kiker,” his sister Angela Evans wrote on Facebook Wednesday, March 12.
“He was sooo loved and will be missed by so many! Your singing with the Angel’s now Bubba,” she wrote. “Please pray for our family as we go threw this very difficult time.”
A cause of death was not revealed.
Kiker, a resident of Mobile, Alabama, was a contestant during season 18 of the popular singing competition. He was called the “Singing Garbage Man” because of his day job as a sanitation worker.
Kiker brought judge Katy Perry to tears with his version of Rascal Flatts’ “Bless The Broken Road” during his audition. Despite his initial success, Kiker was eliminated a week later.
A year later, Kiker was arrested and charged with domestic violence, Variety reported. He is survived by two daughters, according to Billboard.
Kiker’s family created a GoFundMe to help cover the cost of his funeral.
“We are now left with the difficult task of bringing him home and covering funeral expenses. We are reaching out for help to honor Douglas’s memory and give him a proper farewell,“ the campaign reads.
“Any contribution, no matter the amount, will go directly to the funeral costs and allow us to navigate this difficult time without the added financial burden,” it continued. “Thank you for your love, support, and generosity during this incredibly difficult time. We greatly appreciate each and everyone of yall.”
As of Friday morning, the GoFundMe had raised more than $3,700 of its $4,500 goal. People can donate here.
