Robert E. Brown

Portland – Robert E. Brown, 73, beloved father, mentor, and one of a kind man, passed away February 22, 2026, at his Capisic St. home in Portland. It was in this home where he first began his chapter in Maine with his mother, Greta, and brothers, Raymond and Richard. Bob was born on August 2, 1952, at Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck, NJ, son of the late John and Greta (Dahlfred) Brown.

After the loss of John in 1963, Greta and her boys made their way to Portland in the summer of 1966. Bob attended Deering High School, where he participated in football and track and field, specializing in pole vaulting, which he loved and took deserved pride in. He went on to play football at Defiance College before completing his education at the University of Southern Maine in Portland.

Bob built his career in sales, using his commanding presence and good faith to climb to the top of the industry from his beginnings at Makita Tools. One could not help but trust him because, while he wouldn’t always say what one wanted to hear, it would always be kind and it would always be true. His qualities brought him success in business and sales, and he worked with many lucky people, including his son Chad, who had the privilege of working side by side with Bob for several years.

Bob coached football at Deering High School, gracing many young football players with his expertise and wit, and passing the love of the game to the next generations. Throughout his life, he dedicated time, energy, and money to helping those he cared about, without fanfare and without asking in return.

Bob filled every room that he walked into, with laughter, with thoughtfulness, with his larger-than-life presence. Those who knew him will always remember how it felt to share time with him. Bob would say that he hated everybody equally. Those on the receiving end of his jokes knew of course that he meant exactly the opposite. His wit was a form of love, and the world was funnier, lighter, for having him in it. His spirit was unmistakable, and his “Bob-isms” are present in the minds of everyone lucky enough to have heard them in his irreplaceable voice. But don’t say them out loud, because there are some things that only Bob can pull off.

Bob was predeceased by his beloved younger brother Richard, whom he cared for tenderly in Richard’s final days. He is survived by his children, Erin and Chad; grandchildren, Finn, Declan, and Tadhg; brother Raymond Brown; nephew, Sam; nieces, Anna, and Emily.

Bob will be remembered always. His presence and wisdom remain with more people than anyone could guess, and his qualities will continue to make the world a more beautiful place.

Services will be held at a later date.