Honoring Ronnie James Dio

A celebrity bowling tournament and a motorcycle ride are just some of the activities being planned to commemorate the legacy of Ronnie James Dio and the fifth anniversary of his untimely death from gastric cancer.

Planned May 15-17 in Los Angeles, the weekend will also include a public memorial service honoring the late singer who fronted Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell, and, of course, Dio. The rock legend died May 16, 2010.

The celebrity bowling match, dubbed “Bowl For Ronnie,” takes place at the Pinz Bowling Center in Studio City, Calif., Friday May 15. Hosted by Eddie Trunk of VH1’s “That Metal Show,” the event features rockers and celebs competing for trophies while raising funds and awareness for the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up And Shout (SUAS) Cancer Fund. “Bowl For Ronnie” will also feature a silent auction with items including collectible bowling pins signed by members of Aerosmith, Metallica, Anthrax, Fleetwood Mac and Yes. KNAC.com’s DJ Will has been tapped to supply the tourney’s musical soundtrack.

A free public memorial service at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills takes place Saturday, May 16, and includes several former band members and friends talking about Dio’s life and times.

The Ride For Ronnie is set for Sunday, May 17 and begins with check-in at Harley-Davidson of Glendale. Starting with continental breakfast along with entertainment and prizes provided by The Sound 100.3, the first 200 riders to register will receive a limited edition ride Ride For Ronnie Challenge Coin. The trek ends at Los Encinos Historical Park in Encino where riders and observers will partake in a BBQ along with raffle prizes, an auction and live music by Dio’s former bandmates. While the BBQ is for registered riders and their passengers, advance tickets are available for non-riders, but are expected to go fast.

Of course, there is a website offering details on the entire weekend. Visit DioCancerFund.org for everything you need to know.