It is with great sadness that I post today that longtime hillclimber Dave Byer has passed away, after a long battle with cancer.

Dave campaigned his big Suzukis for a long time, switching to a 450 Honda later in his hillclimb career, winning a D23 championship in the Super Senior class on that bike.  Dave, his wive Bev, and daughter Janelle were a fixture in the MN/WI hillclimbing scene seemingly forever, with Bev and Janelle both providing photos and articles for King of the Hill for some time.

Even as his health deteriorated, Dave loved following the local results and would make it out to watch events when he was able.  He’d always centered his summers around the sport, and the people who enjoyed it with him.  Ever congenial, Dave was a friend to everyone and he will be sorely missed.

You can read Dave’s obituary here, and there will be a visitation this coming Sunday, November 19th at the American Legion in Waseca from 1:00 to 4:00PM with a short service at 4:00.  Dennis Funeral Homes is handling the arrangements.