Ronnie James Dio was a generous man in his life and it's fitting that his name is associated with something that continues to give long after his passing. The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund was established in honor of the late rocker, who died after a battle with stomach cancer in 2010. Just last month, a series of events were organized to mark the fifth anniversary of his passing and they also generated a sizable contribution for continued cancer research and education.

Over $155,000 was raised during two fundraisers -- a celebrity bowling tournament and a motorcycle ride / BBQ / concert in the Los Angeles area. There was also a free public memorial where a number of Ronnie's friends, peers and family members paid homage to the rocker, with several all-star musical performances taking place as well.

And while the weekend generated plenty of great stories about Dio, it also served to deliver a message about how to prevent and detect cancer in its early stages. Dr. Sandy Kapoor stated, "Detecting cancer early saves lives and it gives doctors a better chance to cure cancer. We support research that develops new cancer screening tests and finds new targeted treatments that are more effective at treating cancer. I enjoyed manning the Check Yourself booth during the events this weekend that educated the fans about protecting against the ravages of skin cancer."

Rocker Lita Ford, who was present for all three events over the weekend, stated, "I have to say, Wendy Dio put together the classiest, most well-arranged and beautifully arranged functions I have ever seen -- right down to the Glendale police escort at the motorcycle run. What a joy to be able to attend these events. I was in tears looking in the rearview mirror of the motorcycle back at 150 bikers all following Wendy."

Along with Ford, the weekend included appearances by Tom Morello, Tenacious D, various members of Ronnie's bands, Buckcherry's Josh Todd, Extreme's Nuno Bettencourt, Steven Adler, Stone Sour's Roy Mayorga and Christian Martucci, Act of Defiance's Chris Broderick and Henry Derek, Eddie Money, Great White, Eddie Trunk and a host of others.

Loudwire was on hand to cover the entire weekend. Check out our recaps and photo galleries from the Celebrity Bowling Tournament, Public Memorial Service and Ride for Ronnie Motorcycle Rally and Concert.

To learn more about the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund and how you can donate, click here.

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