The story has had some to and fro today but it seems that the worst has been confirmed:  Ronnie James Dio has died.

I spent my formative years listening to Dio.  I cut my teeth on Rainbow and Black Sabbath and I loved his solo work.  I had tickets to see Heaven and Hell perform in a month or so.  His passing has left a void in the heavy metal world and I am truly saddened by the news.

As most fans probably know, Ronnie has been fighting stomach cancer for the last few months.  Word was he was doing well but it seems that the battle didn’t go his way.

Ronnie’s wife Wendy has published the following statement on Dio’s official sites:

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

Sincerely, my condolences are with Wendy and with Ronnie’s family.  It’s a poor consolation but know that Ronnie will be missed by many, many fans all over the world.

Ronnie, thanks for all of the rock you’ve given us over the years.  I’ll drink a beer, listen to some tunes and make some devil-signs in your honour.  So long, Ronnie.