PETER C. KAILUS, JR. 1938-2006 Longtime friend Pete Kailus passed away on September 22, 2006. Pete had been ill this last year including some hospital stays, dealing with diabetes and other complications. Pete joined the Military Miniature Society of Illinois in the late 1960's. He hung out at the old Hobby Chest on Howard Street in Evanston with Lou Quigley and Archer Jackson. Some of his first model soldier work was done converting Britains toy soldiers. He quickly moved on to Stadden and Rose figures. For the next thirty years Pete would paint numerous figures. His subjects were varied but two of his real loves were knights and highlanders. He was a master at researching heraldry and painting it. He also developed a technique of making miniature flags with fine drafting linen that were just superb. While most modelers at the time were using oil based paints, Pete was able to achieve wonders with water based Plaka paint. Pete was always willing to share his methods and techniques with other modelers. He loved attending our monthly meetings and the annual "Chicago Show." He always remembered fondly the World Expos he attended and especially the one in Paris. Pete served the MMSI as president and helped on numerous committees. He was also a member of The Company of Military Historians and of The Napoleonic Alliance. Pete is survived by his wife Karen, sons Michael and Peter and his daughter Christine. He will be sorely missed by all of his many friends. Joe Berton |
