Dio’s Final Farewell

Ronnie James Dio

Hall Of Liberty : Forest Lawn

Hollywood Hills

May 30, 2010

Since 1983, Memorial Day Weekend held a special place in my heart when it came to Heavy Metal Music.  It was on May 29, 1983 that I attended Heavy Metal Day at the US Festival in Devore, California.  300,000 dedicated metal fans came out that weekend to support what was important – Metal.  Once again, Memorial Day Weekend holds a new place in my heart when it comes to Metal Music.  Yesterday, May 30, 2010, thousands of dedicated metal fans came out to support what was important – the life of Ronnie James Dio.

I was one of the lucky ones that was able to attend and take part in this special farewell to one of the founding fathers of Metal.  I was privileged to be able to document the entire Memorial Ceremony – the load-ins, the soundchecks, the arrivals, the fans, the music, the memories, and the tears.

It was a touching and tasteful service, led by Eddie Trunk.  Ronnie’s life and musical talents were broken down and chronicled era by era, section by section, accompanied by live musical performances, video clips, and friends.  Three and half hours was not nearly long enough to display the gifts and love that Ronnie gave to all of us throughout his life.

I hope you enjoy my slideshow…it is my gift to all of you.  I am and always will be a fan and I am blessed to be able to make my living doing what I love.  Rest In Peace Ronnie, your impact in music and your huge warm heart will never be forgotten.

P.S.  Thanks Rob, for being by my side on both of these special Memorial Day Weekends!

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The Man On The Silver Mountain

Ronnie James Dio

(July 10, 1942 – May 16, 2010)

Dressing Room

Los Angeles, CA

April 1, 2005

Just like the millions of Rock Fans around the world, I was stunned this past Sunday morning to hear the news that Ronnie James Dio had passed away a few hours earlier.  Just a few weeks ago I was excited to see him on stage at the Golden God Awards, throwing his metal fingers in the air – as it should be.

Metal and Hard Rock has truly lost an icon, an innovator, and a gentlemen.  I had the pleasure to work with Ronnie a number of times over the years, and every experience was memorable.  He had the heart of a giant and the vocal pipes of an even larger man than that.  The music world will never be the same.

I shot this photo  of Ronnie in Motorhead’s dressing room in Los Angeles a few years ago.  As always, RJD was in a great mood and really played it up for my camera.  I am really going to miss the Holy Diver.

RJD Memorial Info:

Wendy Dio has asked that in lieu of sending flowers, please make a donation to the Ronnie James Dio “Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund.” You can send your check or money order to the Niji Entertainment Group, 12400 Ventura Blvd. #624, Studio City, CA, 91604. From all of us at the Niji Entertainment Group.

Lastly, there will be a Public Memorial Service for Ronnie James Dio on Sunday, May 30th at 2:00 PM at The Hall Of Liberty located at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills, 6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068.