"Chicago Mike" became part of the R&B group in 1985 Michael Sumler of Kool & the Gang has died. He was 71 years old. The band confirmed his death with a statement, saying that "Chicago Mike" made sure the band "looked their best on stage every night" Sumler joined the group in 1985 after becoming friends with the band's security team Michael Sumler,

Kool & The Gang‘s Michael Sumler passed away over the weekend at the age of 71. As reported by Fox 5 Atlanta, Sumler — known by fans as “Chicago Mike” — died in a car crash in Georgia’s Cobb County just after midnight on Saturday (May 24) when he collided with another vehicle on Veterans Memorial Highway near Buckner Road.