Dio was a prince in an ugly world. Prince, hell, he was a fucking king. He was a giant among men, and is a saint in several alternate universes. He had a heart as big as all outdoors. He was often misunderstood, although he was one of the easiest men in this sad world to understand. He lives on, even now, and although I don't believe in an afterlife for me, I believe in one for him. I can see him screaming, swinging a broadsword and sending heads rolling. He was one hell of a guy. I was sad to see Squire, Lake, Emerson & Wetton die, but nothing like what I felt back when Dio left. Notice I didn't say die. Ride on, big guy. Ride on.
I was privileged to see Dio in concert more than a few times. He was a consummate performer, and a true professional. Okay, you can pound me for gettin' gushy, but the guy was just all around perfect. So sue me.
'bot