Blaine Salvadore Kern

Blaine Salvadore Kern, “Mr. Mardi Gras,” a native of Algiers, La., passed away peacefully at home on June 25, 2020 at the age of 93. Devoted and loving for over 18 years to his wife, Holly Brown Kern, Blaine had a zest for life, people, and the City of New Orleans. An eccentric, talented, and creative artist that served in the Army during World War II, founded Kern Studios in 1947, and Mardi Gras World in 1984. Throughout his over 70 year career in creating Mardi Gras magic, Blaine received countless awards and honors for his philanthropic contributions to the New Orleans community. He was most proud to be proclaimed “Mr. Mardi Gras” by the Krewe of Rex in 1988, and serving as Captain of the Krewe of Alla for 50 years. He was thrilled to become a Louisiana Legend in 1998, as well as a New Orleans Legend in 2014. Blaine was honored in the historic New Orleans Tricentennial as one of 300 individuals, over a 300 year span, who made New Orleans, New Orleans. He was humbled when the University of Holy Cross College named their library after him in 1990, giving him their highest honors, a doctorate and the Spes Unica Award. Blaine was overjoyed designing floats and theme park attractions for Universal Studios and Disney for many, many years. Later in life Blaine’s accomplishments did not end, as his passion as an artist lives on in the children’s book he illustrated with his wife Holly, titled, “A Tree In The Sea”.
Left to cherish their memories are his wife Holly Kern, his children Thais Barr (Dennis), Blaine Kern Jr. (Tammy), Barry Kern (Tina), Brian Kern, Blainey Kern, ten grandchildren, and one great grandchild. Everyone, including friends, will miss his genuine heartwarming smile and vivacious spirit. Blaine Kern was extraordinary and his legacy will forever live on.
A public viewing will be held at Gallier Hall, 545 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA on Friday, July 10, 2020 from 8 AM until 11 AM. Following will be a private (invite-only) viewing, mass, and memorial service with military honors. Concluding will be a private burial. Due to COVID-19, masks will be required to enter. Mothe Funeral Homes handled arrangements, to view and sign the online guestbook visit www.mothefunerals.com