Ms. Judith L. Tobias, Ms. Renee Gale Tobias

Alfred Tobias’ love of music and interest in the accordion started at an early age. He started taking accordion lessons in grammar school and it grew to become a lifelong passion. He enrolled in college as a music major but, after 4 semesters, WWII interrupted his studies and he enlisted in the army. He was sent to the European Theater and fought in the Northern France and Germany Campaigns. He brought his accordion with him and although he was offered the opportunity to become part of the entertainment troupes, he continued to march with the 95th Infantry. His accordion traveled along with him in the jeeps. When there was a break from fighting, he would entertain his fellow soldiers. In November 1944, he was severely injured by enemy fire during their attack on the German Siegfried Line. He was shot in and through the neck, leaving him hemiplegic with his entire right side paralyzed. His accordion was shipped home. Informed that he would never walk again and would have other major lifetime limitations, Mr. Tobias believed he would never play the accordion again.

With much determination and perseverance, Mr. Tobias was able to overcome many of his issues—at least those apparent to others. Despite having no feeling on his right side still, the accordion was a perfect instrument for him. He could feel the buttons for the bass on the left and look over at the keys to the right to see the placement of his fingers. Even though he could still play, his injuries kept him from returning to college as a music major.

After graduating from DePaul University with a degree in accounting, Mr. Tobias became a special agent/criminal investigator with the Internal Revenue’s Intelligence Division where he continued to work for most of his professional career.

His love of the accordion continued to be part of his life. He formed a band that played at the Moose Lodge, special events and for private parties. Later, Mr. Tobias became a one-man band. He continued to play at weddings, for family and friends, and at local nursing homes to entertain the residents. With his vast knowledge of songs and his ear for music, he could play most requested songs. If he didn’t know a song, he could pick it up after hearing it, even when it was just hummed for him. Both Mr. Tobias and his wife, Shirley were involved with local fundraising musicals. In addition to transposing music for the shows, Mrs. Tobias enjoyed playing the organ.

This scholarship was set up to honor both Mr. and Mrs. Tobias, who shared a love and commitment to music and education.