Plans are underway to launch a foundation in Oliver Tree’s name following the singer’s death, his team has confirmed.
Oliver Tree, 32, died on June 14 after two helicopters collided above Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, according to reports and statements posted on his official social media accounts.
The other victims were identified as passengers Lucas Vignale, Gaspar Prim, Lucas Brito Chaves, along with pilots Alexandre Souza and Charles Marsillac.
One of the aircraft came down on top of a car dealership, where a number of electric vehicles caught fire. Rio de Janeiro’s Military Fire Department said the blaze was later put out.
On Sunday, June 21, an update was posted to Tree’s Instagram account revealing that his body had been returned to California.
The statement opened with: “Rest in peace Oliver Tree Nickell. Your legacy will live on forever. Oliver is now back in California where he can finally rest.”
The post also addressed plans for a new foundation, describing it as Tree’s “final wish”.
His team wrote: “His legacy will live on through his foundation/endowment named ‘Dr. Oliver Tree’s Extremely Epic Grant For Baby Geniuses’ coming soon.
“This is something that Oliver had put together before his passing, written in his will. We will make sure his wish comes to fruition so that more joy, love and art can be spread into the world. That was his final wish.”
The message went on to say: “Thank you to everyone who has reached out, shown love, support and has done incredible tributes for Olive.
“The constant love, support and positivity is helping the family, friends and collaborators make it through these extremely difficult times.
“Love you all so much, Oliver would be so proud of every one of his supporters, friends and family. Peace be with Oliver…”
Following news of Tree’s death, tributes have continued to appear online, including one from Fiona Chernavskaya, who was believed to have been in a relationship with him since 2023.
She wrote on Instagram: “To my best friend. We traveled to 43 countries, and all 7 continents together. The magic, inspiration and joy you brought to my life and others, will never be forgotten or replaced.
“You’d always tell me when we argued, if things don’t work out in this lifetime, you will find me in the next. I love you buggy.”
Tree’s mother, Christine Begin Nickell, also shared a public message as she reflected on her son’s life.
She wrote on Facebook: “Our dear son Oliver, you made this world a better place. We are so proud of you. RIP.”