Heavy metal icon, Ronnie James Dio, died today at the age of 67. He had been suffering from stomach cancer.
Perhaps best known as Ozzy Osbourne’s replacement in Black Sabbath (1979-1982), “Dio” fronted several bands throughout his 50+ year career, including Elf (1967-1975), Rainbow (1975-1978) – with Ritchie Blackmore of Deep Purple, and Heaven & Hell (2006-2009), which features other former members of Black Sabbath. The latter cancelled 2010 summer tour date due to the singer’s ill health.
R.I.P. Ronnie James Dio
He is survived by his wife Wendy, who posted the following message on www.ronniejamesdio.com:
Today my heart is broken, Ronnie passed away at 7:45 a.m., 16 May 2010. 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 Dio
I am the creator and site administrator at The Basement Rug. I have been collecting LP's and CD's for more than 30 years. I 
it seems the Westboro Baptist Church is going to protest his funeral
http://livelikedirt.blogspot.com/2010/05/wbc-vs-dio.html
Sorta related to Dio’s demonic presence is Frank Frazetta, RIP @ 82 10/5/10 – http://frankfrazetta.org/
completely unrelated is Lena Horne, RIP @ 92 9/5/10 -
http://www.lena-horne.com/
L8r
guineapig-no-more