Thank you for the great memories...

[Wrecked Neck]

There have been a lot of famous people that I have loved die, but none of them have made such an impact on me as Ronnie James Dio. I have never shed a tear over any other celebrity passing away, except for now.

I am still in shock over this, and still can't believe you are gone. I really thought, and hoped, and prayed, that you would kick cancers ass and laugh in it's face. I have had two family members die of cancer, and know it has got to be one of the hardest, most cruel diseases to have to go thru.

I won't go on with a long letter of sorrow and pain. I just wanted to say that you and your music will forever be a part of my life.

I still remember the first Dio album I put on the turn table in my bedroom and cranking it up to 11 (much to the discomfort to my grandmothers ears) and just rocking out. Instant love from there. I still get chills when I listen to Don't Talk to Strangers. Every time I put on one of your albums brings back so many good memories.

Me and my friends walking to the store blasting Last in Line on my boom box! Me and my cousin standing in line for hours getting tickets to the Dream Evil tour (3rd row center Tomas and Mack Center Las Vegas, NV) Shook your hand that night and to this day is still the best show I have ever seen from anyone ever! Getting a chance to see you again on the Magica tour, another amazing show which is number 2 all time. Caught my first drum stick that night, and went on a roll from then on catching 5 more that year, and none since. Got to shake your hand again that night, and I feel honored to do so. Got to finally see you again last year for the Heaven and Hell tour, and my god you were perfect as always.

The world has lost a great musician, but even a greater man. You will be missed, but surely never forgotten. I love you Ronnie James Dio. Rest in Peace my friend. \m/