Joseph Stephen Hlass

Joseph Stephen Hlass died peacefully at his home in Russellville, on July 24, 2017, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on February 2, 1922, in Russellville, to Stephen and Francis Barborek Hlass. He was ready to be with his Heavenly Father and loved ones who'd gone on before him. In his own words, Joe was "ready for anything." When one of his daughters asked him if he knew how much he was loved, Joe said, "All there is." In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Louise Hutcherson Hlass; his sister, Helen Pfeifer Hampton; and his brothers, Bobby, Frank, Steve, and John. He is survived by his daughters, Cindy and Lisa Hlass (Virginia Chase); his sister, Sibyl Wesley; his brother, Tom Hlass; and his dear friend, Beulah Rustad. During the Great Depression, Joe served in the Shiloh Camp of the Civilian Conservation Corps. He was a United States Navy veteran of WWII, spending time in Hawaii after Pearl Harbor was bombed. Joe married Louise Hutcherson in 1948. He worked for Goodyear Tire Company in Russellville, North Carolina, and Mississippi, before opening Shipley Donut Shop in downtown Russellville. He and Louise wanted to be near family and the kid's grandparents. With his good friend Charlie Wilson, Joe later opened and operated a tire store in Russellville (Tire Town) until his retirement in the 80's. Joe was deeply devoted to his family. After retirement he and Louise enjoyed evenings sitting outside at their small South New Hope farm watching the cattle and other animal life. The celebration of Joe's life will begin with a visitation at Shinn Funeral Service on Tuesday, July 25 from 5 to 6:00 p.m., followed by the Rosary service. The funeral will be held at All Saints Episcopal Church in Russellville, on Wednesday July 26, at 10:00 a.m. officiated by the Rev. Ed Wills, and the Rev. Marna Franson, with burial at Rest Haven Memorial Park under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service. There will be a reception at the church following the burial. Donations may be made to St. John's Catholic Church, 1900 West Main St. Russellville, 72801, or St. Michael's Episcopal Church, 12415 Cantrell Rd. Little Rock, 72223, in memory of Joseph Hlass. The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.shinnfuneral.com