Arnold B. Hilaga age 82, of Lutz passed away Monday, September 28th, 2020. Arnold was born in Barotac Viejo, Philippines, to parents Tomas and Honofre (Barrera) Hilaga who preceded him in death. He is survived by his son Arnold L Hilaga Jr., daughter-in-law, Lynne N., 2 grandchildren Cinia and Jacob. Arnold Sr. was married to Dolores T. Hilaga for 42 years until her passing in 2012. Arnold and his wife immigrated to the United States in the early-70's and he became a citizen in 1980. He was a proud American, patriot and took pride in participating in this democracy. He also had deep love for his home land of the Philippines, of which a large number of his family still resides and he had hoped to return to visit one day, but health issues in his later years prevented this. In the States, Arnold also took pride in his education and tried to instill the need to further one's education in his child and grandchildren. He had a Bachelor of Science in Commerce from Far Eastern University in Manila, Philippines and studied Management Accounting at New York University's School of Continuing Education. He worked in accounting for a decade before falling back on his training in Automotive Mechanic Course diploma from Samson Technical School in Manila. Partnered with his brother Dr. Ferdinand Hilaga, Arnold opened a Mobil Service Station franchise then later worked as an automotive technician until his retirement in 2008. Arnold was fond of animals, an avid automotive enthusiast, especially NASCAR, a big fan of professional wrestling/sports entertainment, and was able to vicariously enjoy the Philippines through watching his favorite channel on cable, The Filipino Channel. May he now rest in peace. There will be a gathering of family and friends at Hodges Family Funeral Home 54 Chapel in Zephyrhills, from 11 am to 11:30 am on Saturday, October 3rd, 2020, followed by the funeral service at 11:30 am Arrangements by Hodges Family Funeral Home 54 Chapel, Zephyrhills Fl. Visitation

Hodges Family Funeral Home, Zephyrhills

Saturday, October 3, 2020 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM 36327 SR 54 Zephyrhills, FL 33541 Directions Funeral Service

Hodges Family Funeral Home, Zephyrhills

Saturday, October 3, 2020 11:30 AM 36327 SR 54 Zephyrhills, FL 33541 Directions