Mike Stannard: his legacy?
Posted: Sat Sep 06, 2014 5:16 pm
My condolences to family, friends and fellow hobbists. I don't know what I can possibly add, that hasn't been said already, and more than once. Dittos from me. Mike was a pioneering giant in this hobby, without question. His products added great and unique detail and quality to almost everything within it. Who among us can say they never purchased anything from him? And, for the few who may not have, can you honestly feel your vehicles are not lacking for it? There's definately a huge void in this hobby right now. There are many products that simply can no longer be purchased anywhere, at all. I think we're all soon to realize that, if we haven't already. Yes, there are many excellent craftsmen out there now, but who has the vast product line Mike did? Who offered all the items he did? Now, I don't know to what extent his family members were involved in his enterprise, but what little I do know of Mike personally over the years from doing business with him, I suspect not many, and not much. Perhaps I'm wrong? Once all his assets go through the Probate Court system, his family will own "6th Scale Icons". This process could take many months, maybe even a year. Whoever does ends up with it, my guess is, will probably try to sell it; perhaps as a whole business, perhaps piecemeal(which would be a shame). But, I don't see the family member involved having the historical knowledge, technical skills, or even the desire to continue "Icons". How many people do? Someone with those qualities should reach out to the family and make an offer. The time (and price) has never been better to do so. And, before the "firesale" goes on. The heir will probably be quite flexable and eager for a quick liquidation. For years Mike had always talked about selling and retiring. So, it's not out of line with his wishes. A new and knowledgable owner, could also resolve a lot of the outstanding orders issue as well. Such, could also keep his product line and legacy alive. The other alternative is, they fade into oblivion.