Pat Bird, one of the seminal figure sculptors of the 1960s who helped create a new wave of interest in model soldiers, died yesterday in Florida. He and John Tassell were working for Stadden when they decided to strike out on their own with larger scale figures that were more detailed than the war-game toys they had been sculpting. The size was 1/24, or 77mm, from which the company Series 77 was named. Series 77 was operated by Pat and wife Ollie for a couple of decades, and the firm is in the midst of a rebirth in which Pat's figures will once again become available. Pat is survived by Ollie.

I never met Pat, but, I have ALOT of his lead!!! His Vietnam Green Beret figure was the single reason I got in to figure models. When I was able to, I always scarfed up his series 77 kit (hint to you, Burl!). From what I have learned from the old times in the figure painting circles, Pat and his wife were two of the nicest folks you could hope to meet. Pat hasn't been around for a long, long time, but, his presence is still felt keenly. My condolences to his wife and any other family.

the L.A. area. What a wonderful gent! I brought him a huge collection of the metal bases that came with his figures because I always mounted mine on wood bases. He traded me a new fig. for the bases.

Met Pat and his wife a few times in L.A. He was a true talent and a geat guy. He will be missed.