John David Byro

John David Byro, age 39, of rural Madelia, MN, left this physical world and went to Valhalla October 08, 2021. John was born August 5, 1982, in Owatonna, MN. Not long after, he moved to the family farm in rural Madelia, Brown County. John attended Madelia Public Schools and graduated from Madelia High School in 2001. During high school he worked on the family farm and at Madelia Food Pride. Right after graduation, John enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He attended boot camp and school of infantry training in CA. John served his country with pride. During his service he was deployed with Weapons Company and Golf Company 2/1 (15th MEU). He held many positions and jobs while overseas but his official title was 0351. During the first deployment he was on the USS Tarawa. He was proud to hold the unofficial record of successful javelin hits. John always did what he felt was right for his military brothers and his family. This meant he did not always obtain clearance before acting. He was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps on October 8, 2005 with the rank of Corporal. After his service, John returned to the farm and worked in New Ulm for a time with electric motors. He later lived in Cottage Grove and worked as a security guard for an oil refinery, where he met new friends that he cared deeply for. He attended Metropolitan State University where he was pursuing a degree in law enforcement and criminal justice. He was close to graduation when he was involved in a near fatal hit-and-run motorcycle wreck on October 27, 2011. Continuously surrounded by family and friends, he would spend 52 days at Hennepin County Medical Center undergoing brain surgery multiple times, and battling many different infections. Ever the fighter, he defied the odds and transitioned to rehab first at Bethesda Rehabilitation Hospital, and then at the VA Hospital in Minneapolis in January 2012. On June 2, 2012, he discharged himself from the VA in Minneapolis, after the 2-hour drive back home to Madelia, John was back on a motorcycle. Being on his Harley was where he felt at peace. He also said it was his therapy and the best place to think. John, along with his sister Amy, who devoted her time to making sure John was safe, lived in the Madelia area. In 2018 after experiencing one too many long Minnesota winters, John had enough and loaded up his Harley and went to New Mexico. When John's father passed away in April 2021, he moved home to the family farm, a place where he always longed to be. Because being on his Harley brought him so much peace, it is easy to understand why he was drawn to the Leatherneck MC, where he rode and enjoyed camaraderie with other military brothers. John is survived by his sister, Amy Byro of Fargo; brothers, Aaron Pope and his son William, of Cottage Grove and Derek (Ray) Byrozo of New Ulm. Also left to cherish his memory are many close friends including lifelong friends Eli Stewart, Justin "Shorty" Stevenson, both of Madelia, John "Vern" Schmidt of Minot; cousin, Amanda (Andy) Gappa with their son, Tracyn; his Gold Star Mom, De'on Miller and her husband Greg, with their families; along with many uncles, aunts, cousins, friends, and his brothers of the Marine Corps. He was preceded in death by his father, David Byro; grandparents, Irvin "Luben" and Bonita "Bonnie" (Trullinger) Byro, and his beloved 2/1 Marine Brothers who welcomed him into Valhalla. John was loved by many, anyone who met him would appreciate his smile, his sense of humor, and his infectious and memorable laugh. The Byro family wants to send our love and sympathy to each of you that were impacted by John. We welcome you to share memories you have with us, memories are invaluable and we appreciate them all. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 30, 2021, at the Madelia Golf Course Clubhouse from 10 AM - 6 PM, with Military Honors by the Madelia Area Veterans Honor Guard and Mankato Marine Detachment at 1 PM. Memorials are preferred to a veterans organization of your choice, in John's honor. The Byro family wishes to thank everyone for their kindness and support during this very difficult time. No individual acknowledgements will be sent. Arrangements are with the Sturm Funeral Home, Pilgrim Chapel in Madelia. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com. Service Information 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Saturday, October 30, 2021 Madelia Golfcourse Clubhouse 515 Everett Christensen Drive Madelia, Minnesota, United States 56062 Military Honors Military honors will take place at the Madelia Golf Course at 1:00pm.