Robert Townsend Lilga

Lilga, Robert Townsend. August 15, 1968 –June 16, 2014, died unexpectedly after an accident in his home. Predeceased by his mother, Barbara Townsend of Columbia, MO, grandparents Robert and Vivian Townsend of Apollo Beach, FL and Norman and Dorothy Lilga of Boynton Beach, FL. Rob is survived by parents John and Judith Lilga of Hagerstown, MD and aunts Shari LeMay and Joan Harkleroad, uncle Frank LeMay, and many cousins. Mr. Lilga graduated Boonsboro High School (MD) in 1986 and Widener University in 1990 and moved to Tampa shortly thereafter. Though confined to a wheelchair by a lifelong battle with Muscular Dystrophy, Rob lived a full and active life. He was the owner of Lilga Accounting Services and provided invaluable guidance to non-profit groups providing affordable housing for more than 20 years. Rob was an avid sports fan. He was a Tampa Bay Lightning season ticket holder from their inaugural season and drank a toast from the Stanley Cup hoisted by Lightning players. Rob also loved baseball and traveled to Cooperstown to attend Cal Ripken’s induction into the Hall of Fame. Rob had a logical and analytical mind and loved to debate any issue. He was known for his quick wit, his willingness to help anyone who asked, and especially for his quiet but fierce determination to live life on his own terms. Even as his physical abilities declined, Rob continued to live independently, attend sporting events, go out with friends and run his business. Though he was not especially outgoing and claimed to not suffer fools well, Rob had friends everywhere. We will miss him terribly but are comforted by the sure knowledge that at last he is somewhere running very fast, for the sheer joy of it. A memorial service will be held for Robert, Friday, June 20th, 11:00 am at the chapel of Blount Curry Terrace Oaks, 12690 N. 56th St., Temple Terrace.