A born leader and natural athlete, Jerry Dunne earned the respect of teammates, coaches, sportswriters, and fans — not only for his athletic achievements but also for his exemplary character.

He set records at the high school and NCAA levels; he was called “America’s Best College Quarterback.” He mentored and taught underprivileged youth in the Upward Bound program. He was featured in the national SPORT magazine as Athlete of the Month and visited the White House for recognition of his accomplishments.

All eyes were on Jerry Dunne, which undoubtedly created a certain level of expectation to overcome obstacles and win. That resolve would be tested again when diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 28. And again when faced with a kidney transplant at 56.

In these pages you’ll find a common thread weaving through Jerry Dunne’s life — a selfless commitment to others. That core of who he is drew fans, built businesses, and nurtured a loving family with high-school-sweetheart-turned-wife of nearly 50 years, Denise. He considers his family his greatest legacy. That mindset, to turn attention to others and build them up, is the story of Jerry Dunne.