Metal lost one of it's most powerful voices yesterday with the passing of Ronnie James Dio. Battling stomach cancer for the last several months, Dio fought hard and inspired hope in others before succumbing to the disease. On his official website, just a touching remembrance from his wife and manager remains:
"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 Dio
Responding to the sad news, Megadeth's Dave Ellefson and Shawn Drover offer their condolences and remembrances from their website.
Ellefson writes, "Our bright beam from the tour's glow was dimmed today when we learned of the passing of Ronnie James Dio. He was truly one of the 'good guys' in this business and a consummate pro, someone we can all take a que [sic] and learn from. We are all fans of his and he did many great things for Megadeth and its members, starting as far back as his "Dream Evil" North American tour in which we were the support band during the "So Far, So Good...So What" tour. Our prayers go out to him and his family at this time."
While Drover shares, "I am at an absolute loss right now upon hearing that Ronnie has passed away. I had the pleasure of touring both Canada and America in 2007 when Megadeth toured with "Heaven and Hell" (Black Sabbath in my eyes) and I swear to you he is 1 of the nicest human beings I have ever met, period. Many a night on that tour, Glen and myself would have amazing conversation's with Ronnie about his career, etc. fully knowing he had probably told these stories 10,000 times to people and yet he answered every question I had with a big smile. I can recall so many times making eye contact with Glen sharing the exact same thought - "Dude, I can't believe we are hanging with RONNIE JAMES DIO!!!!!" If you are lucky enough in your lifetime to actually meet 1 of your idols (let alone tour with them) and they turn out to be even nicer than you could have envisioned, that is something you would truly treasure. Lucky for me, I will cherish those memories forever..."
Rest in Peace Ronnie James Dio.
