Alan Rupp: The Man Who Made Derby-Pie® a Kentucky Tradition

The rolling hills of Kentucky and the thunder of hooves at Churchill Downs wouldn't be quite the same without a slice of Kern’s Derby-Pie®. Behind this delicious tradition stood a man whose passion and dedication made it all possible: Alan Rupp.

From Family Kitchen to Kentucky Staple

Alan's story is deeply intertwined with Kern's Kitchen, a name now synonymous with Derby-Pie®. In 1954, his grandparents, Walter and Leaudra Kern, along with their son George, managed the Melrose Inn. It was there, amidst the warmth of family and delicious food, that the legendary Derby-Pie® was born.

As Alan himself recounted, the pie was their "specialty item," and the name came about through a simple yet fitting process – family gathered at the Inn wrote suggestions on paper, and the winner pulled right out of hat, ‘derby pie’.

A Legacy Built on Passion for Derby-Pie®

Alan joined the family business in 1973, commuting from college on weekends to help during the peak Derby season. His dedication only grew stronger over the years. Over 50 Derby seasons paints a picture of a man deeply invested in the legacy his family created, ensuring the continued success of the beloved Derby-Pie®.

Under his leadership, Kern's Kitchen remained true to its small-batch approach, using time-tested recipes to ensure the consistent quality that fans of Derby-Pie® have come to expect. He wasn't just the president; he was, as many have called him, "The Pie Man".  A title that perfectly captured his passion for crafting the iconic Derby-Pie®.

Beyond the Deliciousness: A Community Pillar

Alan's impact extended far beyond the perfect crust and decadent filling of Derby-Pie®. He was a pillar in the Louisville community, a man who believed in passion and purpose. His commitment to Kentucky hospitality was evident in everything he did, ensuring Kern's Kitchen remained a welcoming haven for locals and visitors alike.

A Celebration of Life, a Slice of Sweet History

Alan Rupp's passing in June 2024 left a void, not just within his family and Kern's Kitchen, but also within the hearts of those who cherished the Kentucky Derby tradition. The outpouring of love and appreciation is a testament to the impact he made, not just as a businessman, but as the man who ensured Derby-Pie® continued to be a beloved part of the Derby experience.

The Sweetness of Derby-Pie® Continues

While Alan is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in every slice of the iconic Derby-Pie®. Kern's Kitchen continues to uphold the tradition, ensuring that the taste of Kentucky hospitality and the deliciousness of Derby-Pie® remain cherished parts of the Derby experience.

Alan Rupp's story is one of family, dedication, and the power of a simple, delicious dessert, Derby-Pie®, to bring people together. As we celebrate the Kentucky Derby and savor the taste of Derby-Pie®, let's remember the man who made it all possible.