Ronnie James Dio, a legendary rock vocalist, passed away on May 16, 2010. He was 67 years old. Born Ronald James Padavona in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Dio became a staple of hard rock and heavy metal music. His career began in a blues-rock band called The Vegas Kings in 1957, but would become famous for his stage presence and vocal range in acts such as Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and Heaven & Hell. He was inducted into the Hall of Heavy Metal Fame in 2001. His influence was immense. His voice could change between angelic highs and demonic lows, lending a depth and character that set him apart from his contemporaries. He is known for popularizing the use of the sign of the horns, having first used it during his time in the band Rainbow. After a battle with stomach cancer, Dio passed away on May 16, 2010. He is survived by his wife and manager, Wendy Dio. His contributions to the world of hard rock will live on.