Stella I. Tovbina

Stella I. Tovbina, 74, Green Bay passed away at home with her family by her side on Tuesday, January 24, 2023. Stella was born on January 27, 1948 in Baku, Azerbaijan, the daughter of Ilya Tovbin and Nora (Budagyan) Tovbina. Stella graduated from Baku Conservatory in 1985 with a master’s degree in music. She taught piano at a local music school during the day and taught knitting at night. In 1988 she relocated to Moscow for four years before moving to the United States in 1992. Stella was determined to continue her teaching career and started her own business providing piano lessons shortly after her arrival to Green Bay. Early on, she was known for hosting benefit dinners at St. Matthew’s church, where her students would play music and members of the Armenian community would prepare customary food for guests. The proceeds of these events were sent to Armenia to help families in need. She also worked for the Diocese of Green Bay as a translator and advocate in assisting new families who immigrated from Russia. Stella was well known to the music teaching community as she spent time conducting lessons at Henri’s, Heid Music, and in the privacy of her home. Her impact was felt by hundreds of students, many of whom went on to be successful in state competitions, often achieving first place awards. Her dedication to her students was apparent as she continued teaching until she was physically no longer able to do so in the recent months. In addition to teaching piano, Stella enjoyed traveling, knitting, gardening, baking, and spending time with family and friends. Stella is survived by her son Mike Tovbin and his fiancé, Ashley Dugre, one grandson, Cameron, and her loyal furry companion, Jeff. She is further survived by many close friends who were like family to her. She was preceded in death by her mother, Nora Tovbina and her uncle, Edward Budagyan. Gathering of family and friends will be held from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, January 28, 2023, at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 130 St. Matthew Street. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Bob Kabat officiating. The family would like to offer heartfelt gratitude to Unity Hospice and special friends, Carol Stanaszak and Asya Babayan, for all their loving care and compassion during Stella’s final days.

Stella I. Tovbina

January 27, 1948 - January 24, 2023