Heavy metal icon and former lead singer of groups including Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Ronnie James Dio has died of 67. The cause of death was stomach cancer say multiple news reports.

Dio while not tall in stature was a giant among heavy metal singers. His songs "Holy Diver" and "Rainbow in the Dark" literally define the in-your-face nature of his chosen musical genre. Dio, despite his Roman Catholic upbringing, is best known for his devilish overtones and satanic hand gestures. Like Led Zeppelin, Ozzy Osbourne and other heavy metal institutions - Dio pulled from the lure of Robert Johnson and the Crossroads legend to build his taboo lure.

Ronnie James Dio's wife, Wendy Dio, posted the following comments on the official Dio website:

"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."

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