Robert James Brown, who portrayed Abraham Lincoln in area parades, Civil War re-enactments and other civic events, died in Port Orchard on Feb. 12 — the former president’s birthday.

According to media reports, the 72-year-old Brown, who lived in north Mason County near Tahuya, suffered a brain abscess on Jan. 1. He underwent surgery at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle and was recovering at Life Care Center at time of his death.

Brown’s last public appearance was Nov. 11, 2013, when he delivered the Gettysburg Address at the Veterans Day Service at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds.

Brown was born on July 27, 1941, to Margaret Reska and Frederick Brown in Mt. Clemons, Mich.

He served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War.

Brown moved from Iowa to Bremerton in 1982.

He is survived by a sister, Donna Yant of Evansdale, Iowa, along with several nieces and nephews.

In May, his ashes will accompany unclaimed remains of deceased veterans in the Run to Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent.

A memorial service is set from 2-4 p.m., Sunday, March 2, at the Eagles Eerie #4226 in Belfair. Light refreshments will be served.