To all K&C Collectors & Friends,
Earlier this evening, my brother and friend Gordon passed away after a four month stay in hospital here in Hong Kong...Over the years he fought many a battle against ill health and medical misfortunes and triumphed o’er every one ...except this last one which he endured with great patience and bravery.
Throughout these years his spirits never wavered and his gentle nature and good humour carried him over and beyond his personal trials and tribulations.
One of the joys of his life was his love of toy soldiers and his model-making...especially dioramas.
His contribution to the hobby could often be seen and enjoyed at major shows in Chicago...Los Angeles...London...and San Antonio.
Many fine collections all over the world, large and small, have examples of Gordon’s superb and unique artistry and handiwork. I am proud to have some myself.
Gordon was an integral part of King & Country since its earliest days. It was Gordon who got me back into collecting toy soldiers when, in 1980, he sent me a small set of a Royal Marines Colour Party made by Blenheim in the UK for my Christmas that year. These were the first toy soldiers I had seen since I last collected them in the mid 1960’s...and I was hooked!
Within a few short years I became an ‘addict’ with a serious ‘habit’ which eventually led, in 1983, to the founding of K&C...Gordon started the ball rolling and it’s never stopped rolling since. In 1984 Laura and myself brought him out to Hong Kong to join us and work with the company.
Gordon’s contribution to the company and his friendship and loyalty were second-to-none and can never be replaced or duplicated...He was a ‘One-Off’ pure and simple...and a kind, quiet and gentle soul into the bargain.
He was also my younger brother and friend and I will miss him greatly,
Andy C. Neilson.
