I dropped in for our usual night of cakes, coffee and modelling last Tuesday, only to find the lights out, and curtains drawn. I asked if any of the neighbours had seen him. No one had, so I let myself in, with a neighbour, who is also in the Police force. We found Bob face down in the bedroom, having suffered a massive stroke. I immediately phoned for an ambulance, which came while I was still on the phone. They got him downstairs and into the ambulance. We arrived at A&E within 30 minutes. When I got there, slightly later, he was already being treated. He was transferred to Durham Stroke Unit at four in the morning. I went up later in the morning. He was still just semi-conscious, unable to speak, and was paralysed down his left side, unable to eat or drink, as the huge bleed had caused an issue with his swallow reflex. Any drink would have choked him. It became apparent that he had been laid out for 3 days before we found him. He never really came back to us, though he seemed determined to remove his pipes and tubes. He started to slip away while we were there. He remained sleeping peacefully until his heart stopped on Friday. He had a signed DNR, so the hospital staff were unable to do any more for him.
Mike Burns and I had been in to see him until he passed. He left an unbelievable number of completed models, a lot of part built models, and a small, but impressive stash. Most being Mosquitos, which was his latest modelling project. Bob had won a few awards over the years, but his models clashed a little with the latest fashion concentrating on fine, artistic painting techniques, pre-shading, heavy weathering, and vast amounts of after market items, from etched brass, to resin, to pre cut mask sets, to 3D printed parts, which could cost more than the expensive kits. Bob just built his kits to match photo references, profiles, and detailed drawings. The models were not weathered, as they were not used with scenic bases. They do show tremendous attention to detail and accuracy, as well as very neat paintwork. That's how he wanted his models to look, so that's how he did it. He had a vast knowledge of aircraft, and was determined to make the model look as accurate as possible. He wanted to show the individual types, versions and featured squadrons. He didn't do anything by halves. His long standing friends are going to miss him a lot. He died just before the 11th Hour, of the 11th Day, of the 11th Month. Bob actually served in the T.A. for many years as part of R.E.M.E.
We certainly will not forget him. Especially while we are trying to complete a large number of part finished models. Bob did all the intricate internal work first, then sealed up the fuselage, getting the main components assembled and painted, leaving a lot of detail parts, wheels, decals etc in Ice Cream tubs. We now have to match the tubs to the models. Luckily, he included the serial numbers, and often Squadron details and scheme. His collection was left to his friends, so they will soon be found new homes. Many will still be included in club displays for Coastal Command and North East Airfields. His work will live on.
Raise a glass to Bob Burdon. Master Modeller, Craftsman, and our best friend. 3rd August 1947 to 11th November 2023.
Some of Bob's models are shown here. Most are 1/48th, though his Bomber Collection is 1/72nd, and his Harriers are 1/24th. When the good weather returns, I will be taking more photos. Here are a few for now.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/23594891@ ... 6326372815
