Kurt Alfred Stern, who started southern Palm Beach County's two biggest jazz clubs, died of cancer Saturday at his home in suburban Delray Beach, The Palm Beach Post reported today.

Stern founded the South Florida Jazz and Swing Society in 1992.

He and a friend began booking bands to perform at the South County Civic Center, and their first concert drew almost 100 people. Over the years, the club organized dozens of concerts and grew to 1,200 members. It is now called the Swing and Jazz Preservation Society of Florida.

His favorite musicians were Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and Benny Goodman, as well as a few lesser-knowns.

Mr. Stern is survived by his wife, two daughters and three grandchildren.

A funeral service will take place at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Beth Israel Memorial Chapel in suburban Boynton Beach.


The Greater Florida Jazz & Swing Club
Post Office Box 480101
Delray Beach, FL 33448-0101