The light of a legendary star of Heavy Metal and godfather of Power Metal has extinguished this morning. Ronnie James Dio lost an epic battle with stomach cancer this morning at 7:45, according to a statement made by his wife and manager Wendy Dio. Ronnie was 67.Heaven and Hell had announced a series of appearances at European festivals over the summer to celebrate Dio’s progress, however the band was forced to cancel the entire tour earlier this month citing health concerns for Dio. The tour would have marked the comeback of the father of Power Metal, former frontman of Rainbow, Black Sabbath as well as his own band Dio, all influential and legendary acts in the world of Metal.
A false rumour surfaced online yesterday citing Dio’s death, which Wendy quickly rebutted and mentioned that though Dio’s condition was serious he was “still hanging in there” sadly this morning’s news are no rumour. The following is the complete statement made by Wendy:
"Today my heart is broken, Ronnie passed away at 7:45 a.m. [on Sunday] 16th May. Many, many friends and family were able to say their private goodbyes 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."
This is a truly sad day for Metal fans everywhere. As musicians and fans we owe a lot to Dio and his legacy will forever live. A true wordsmith, visionary and innovator, Ronnie James Dio will forever be remembered and his memory and music will endure the test of time.
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