R.I.P. Ronnie James Dio

[Toymin8r]

A metal legend has fallen.

Ronnie James Dio, former frontman of Black Sabbath and his own band Dio, died today from stomach cancer. He was 67.

His wife, Wendy, posted the sad news on his website: "Today my heart is broken, Ronnie passed away at 7:45am 16th May. Many, many friends and family were able to say their private good-byes before he peacefully passed away. Ronnie knew how much he was loved by all. We so appreciate the love and support that you have all given us. Please give us a few days of privacy to deal with this terrible loss. Please know he loved you all and his music will live on forever."

Wendy announced that her husband was diagnosed with stomach cancer on Nov. 25, and he underwent at least seven rounds of chemo. His current band, Heaven and Hell, canceled its summer tour on May 4 because of his condition.

Born Ronald James Padavona, Dio performed with the bands Testament of Apollo, Elf and Rainbow before joining Sabbath in 1979 after Ozzy Osbourne left. He was inducted into the Hollywood Rock Walk of Fame on Jan. 17, 2007.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSjlEjpyA9g

[YotaNate]

Noooo!  A legend indeed!  He will be missed, she is correct though he will live on forever in his music.


Nate

[germ]

What a shame! He had a very distinct voice and style.

[JanMarie13]

I saw that and we were very bummed.  We just saw him in concert in Pittsburgh a couple years ago.