Co-founder of ‘Hand Grenade’ drink, Pam Fortner, dies at 80

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — It was announced Thursday, Sept. 10, the death of Pam Fortner, part founder of the famous “Hand Grenade” drink.

Fortner became a staple in the City of New Orleans after a trip to Mardi Gras in 1972. In a post from Tropical Isle, she was captivated by the city’s charm and relocated to the Crescent City.

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She later met Earl Bernhardt and in 1984, they opened the very first of four Tropical Isle locations and years after, created the “world-famous Hand Grenade” drink made with a secret recipe.

“Pam truly loved running her bars, greeting customers from every corner of the globe. Outside of her business, she was an avid dog lover who cherished her many pets over the years, and she had a passion for travel.”

Tropical Isle Staff…

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