BREAKING NEWS: (Confirmed) Ronnie James Dio Passes Away At The Age of 67

Today (May 16, 2010) Heavy Metal lost one of it's most beloved front men, Ronnie James Dio.

Dio, has been battling stomach cancer for the past year, and yesterday went through a rough patch. Rumors started exploding, nothing was announced, until just a little while ago, it was confirmed that the pioneer of the horns has indeed passed away at the age of 67.

Ronnie's wife/manager Wendy Dio told Blabbermouth:

"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 just a heart breaking moment in heavy metal history, I urge you all to please leave your condolences to Ronnie's family on his official facebook where they will be reading them.

R.I.P. Brother, true legend, husband, and father... thank you for everything, thank you for being true to heavy metal, thank you for being true to yourself, and thank you for the horns! no one could ever forget you!

HORNS UP HIGH!!