The sport of wrestling produces some tough individuals who take on challenges many people would not even pursue. Physical challenges can be some of the most difficult to overcome and succeed. Mankato's Jerry Byers was one of those unique individuals. With an amputated ankle and foot from a farm mowing accident as a seven-year-old, Byers pursued the sport of wrestling and became a rare two-time Minnesota State Wrestling Champion in 1959 and 1960 in the old "one class" state tournament. Byers started his wrestling career when legendary Hall of Fame Coach Luverne Klar at Mankato High School asked him to try wrestling as a sophomore in his physical education class. That decision worked out great for both Coach Klar and Jerry Byers, as Jerry went on to capture two state wrestling titles in 1959 and 1960. Along the way, Jerry captured District and Region titles too, wrestling at 95 lbs. Coach Klar noticed potential in Byers when he saw him climb a rope faster than anybody else in physical education class. After getting some experience in a few matches as a sophomore, with no previous experience Jerry's junior and senior years were devastating for his opponents as he won every match he competed in, becoming a two-time Minnesota State Wrestling Champion. Now retired, Jerry Byers worked as the Supervisor of the Mankato Bus Company for 33 years before retiring. As a retiree Byers hobbies include reading, fixing things up in his garage, working on his antique car, fishing and traveling. Jerry has two children. His son John was a successful businessman who owned his own company and retired at the early age of 48, then moving to Honolulu, Hawaii. Jerry's daughter Heather, lives in Brainerd. She has two sons. In total, Jerry has five grandchildren and one great grandchild. He has another son named Damian.