Gerald Entringer Sr., Local Bakery Pioneer
Submitted by N.O.V.A. July 2005
Times Picayune 	02-12-1998


*************************************************
Copyright. All rights reserved.
http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm
http://www.usgwarchives.net/la/lafiles.htm
************************************************  


Gerald Entringer Sr., who helped make the king cakes, buttermilk drops and turtles
of McKenzie's Pastry Shoppes part of New Orleans' culinary tradition, died of
cancer at his home Wednesday.

Mr. Entringer, 74, helped run his family's business and instill the work ethic
that has kept the company in the family for generations, said his son, Gerald
Entringer Jr.

"We used to do home deliveries," said the younger Entringer, "and even if the pie
was going to a barroom, I had to take it there as a little boy.

"My father was never a quitter, he didn't have that 'I can't' attitude," he said.
"He taught us that."

Mr. Entringer was born in Fond du Lac, Wis., and lived in New Orleans for more
than 50 years. His grandfather bought the Prytania Street bakery from Mac McKenzie
for $83.

"We like to say we started king cakes," the younger Entringer said.

"When he bought it, my grandmother told my grandfather not to change the name
because people know McKenzie's," he said. "She also knew no one can pronounce
Entringer."

Formally, Mr. Entringer was the treasurer of Entringer Bakeries, Inc., which does
business as McKenzie's Pastry Shoppes. He was a past president of the Deep South
Retail Baker's Association and a member of the Retail Bakers of America.

"Our dad was the most gracious and kind man we have ever known," the younger
Entringer said.

In addition to his son, survivors include two daughters, Janice E. Mouton and
Gayle E. Eagan; 10 grandchildren; and a great-grandchild. A Mass will be said
Friday at noon at Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, 4747 Veterans Memorial Blvd.,
Metairie. Visitation will begin Friday at 9 a.m. Burial will be in Lake Lawn Park
Cemetery.