'Biggest Loser' contestant dies at the age of 38

"Biggest Loser" contestant Damien Gurganious passed away this week at the young age of 38.

He died Monday after a sudden onset of a rare autoimmune disorder that caused bleeding in his brain.

The season 7 contestant was eliminated in the third week of the show in 2009, but continued his weight loss at home with his then-fiancé Nicole Brewer. Together they lost 200 pounds.

She paid tribute to her husband on Facebook and posted a link to celebrate his life and help raise money to support the family he leaves behind.

"As most of you know, I never post on social media. So, it is highly ironic and deeply sad that my first true post is to inform you of the tragic loss of my beloved husband... He was a pillar of his family, an amazing son, brother, cousin and uncle. He was an incredible husband and father to his two-year old daughter, Giselle. He was an inspiration and a mentor to so many. His love for his family and friends was immense."

A funeral service is scheduled for December 6 in Brooklyn and "The Biggest Loser" is set to air an "in memoriam" card following next week's episode on Thursday, Dec. 11.

More on AOL.com:
Obamas to get a biopic -- about their first date
Typhoon's effects felt in Philippines; 600K flee
Advocates fear impact of Rolling Stone apology