Like everyone else, I’m hearing reports that famed singer Ronnie James Dio has lost his battle with stomach cancer and I am sad to hear it. Currently his website (http://www.ronniejamesdio.com) is overloaded back online and not confirming anything:

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Message from Wendy Dio

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’

Metal Insider who broke the story is down as well: http://www.metalinsider.net/news/ronnie-james-dio-passes

The twitscape (twatscape) is a flurry with Dio posts….

UPDATE:  Confirmed http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100516/ap_on_en_mu/us_obit_ronnie_james_dio