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, winning his titles in 1959 and 1960 in the old "one-class" state tournament.

Byers started his wrestling career when legendary Hall of Fame coach Luverne Klar asked him to try wrestling as a sophomore in his physical education class at Mankato High School. Coach Klar noticed potential in Byers when he saw him climb a rope faster than anybody else in physical education class. That decision worked out great for both Coach Klar and Byers, who also won district and regional titles at 95 pounds in addition to his state titles.

Having never wrestled and after wrestling in some matches as a sophomore, Byers went undefeated as a junior and senior.

Byers worked as the supervisor of the Mankato Bus Company for 33 years before retiring. After retiring, Byers enjoyed reading, fixing things up in his garage, working on his antique car, fishing and traveling.

Jerry's 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 and has two sons. In total, Jerry has five grandchildren and one great grandchild. He has another son named Damian.