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Remembering David B. - a military model enthusiast to the end
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of one of our valued customers, David B., who died on Sunday 1st March 2026 — fittingly, St David’s Day.
David wasn’t just a customer of BrickTanks — he was a true enthusiast, a builder in the purest sense, and someone who found real joy in every model he completed.
We recently received a heartfelt message from David’s son, Matt, who kindly shared his father’s story with us.
David discovered a love for building Cobi models that quickly became a cherished part of his daily life. Each new set brought not only a sense of achievement, but genuine happiness. As Matt described so beautifully, once his dad finished a model, "He was like a little kid again immediately returning to your website seeking his next model to build."
Of course, this growing collection didn’t go unnoticed at home — with completed models gradually taking over the lounge and dining room! But as Matt said, it was all worth it, because it made his dad so happy.
As David’s collection grew, so did the need for a proper space to showcase it. Earlier this year, Matt created something truly special — transforming a back bedroom in his parent's house into a dedicated model display room. Carefully designed and built, the room featured glass shelving and lighting to highlight David’s incredible collection. It became a space that reflected not just the models themselves, but the passion, patience, and pride behind them.
Sadly, not long after the room was completed, David became unwell and spent several weeks in hospital. Although he was unable to continue building models upon returning home, he found comfort in simply sitting in his model room — surrounded by the results of countless hours of enjoyment, focus and satisfaction.
Matt shared that these models weren’t just objects — they were a source of lasting memories.
On behalf of everyone at BrickTanks, we are deeply honoured to have played even a small part in David’s story. It means a great deal to us to know that our models brought him so much joy, purpose, and pride.
David’s collection — and the beautiful space created to display it — stands as a lasting tribute to a loving husband, dad, grandad and great-grandad.
We extend our sincere condolences to Matt and the entire family, and we thank them for allowing us to share David’s story here with his fellow model building enthusiasts.
Paul manley
My condolences for your loss,I also enjoy making and displaying these great models,his collection looks fantastic, I’m sure it brought him loads of pleasure, RIP.
Kevin Taylor
Sorry to hear about David. Never met the man, but share his great hobby. Hopefully I’ll build a collection like his over time.
My condolences to his family 🙏
Nick
Respect for David’s life, his family and his collection. From Nick and family.
Jacob
Condolences to Matt and his family. What an incredible collection and such a meaningful gift to David, giving him a space to display his models. It must have meant the world to him. Those of us in the brick community know the care and attention behind every piece, and it’s clear a kind and thoughtful soul has been lost.