Hassell was a brother to Gus who married Lola's sister, Bessie, i.e.br others married sisters.
He was a carpenter.
In 1954 the two couples bought a store in Cooks Mills, IL, and namedit A dams Brothers. After 15 years, Hassell and Lola bought out therelati ves and renamed it Adams Grocery. The store was still inbusiness in 1 998 where it continues to serve as the hub of the smalltown, providing a p lace where locals can gather for a hot or colddrink and share informat ion, mail letters, or buy staples. Theantique atmosphere has been ret ained by keeping the old bronze cashregister, glass candy counter, and p op machine in use.
Willie had Alzheimer's disease for 12 years before his death.
