Kool & the Gang’s ‘Chicago Mike’ killed in crash in Georgia: Reports

CHICAGO — Michael Sumler, who spent a decade and a half working with the iconic group Kool & the Gang, died over the weekend at age 71.

According to reports, Sumler, known as “Chicago Mike,” was killed in a car crash in Cobb County, Georgia, on Saturday.

The group confirmed Sumler’s death in a post shared on X on Wednesday night.

Sumler, known as “Chicago Mike,” worked as the group’s wardrobe valet between 2000 and 2015.

“He also hyped the crowd with his energy and dance moves at the show,” the social media post read in part.

In a tribute shared on X, Michael Cooper, founding member of the funk group Con Funk Shun, shared his condolences.

“Thank you Mike for always supporting Confunkshun. We had no idea that Sunday night’s Love’s Train would be your last ride. Rest in heavenly peace,” Cooper said.