In 1929, Adam’s paternal grandparents, Andrew and Theresa Andrzejewski, immigrated from Poland to Evanston, Illinois. In the midst of the Great Depression, they raised five children in a 900 square foot upper apartment, while renting the lower level. Adam's father, John Andrzejewski, watched the work ethic of his father who often worked fourteen hour days under trying conditions.
Adam’s mother, Janet Norris Andrzejewski, was the second of ten children growing up on the family farm outside of Sugar Grove, IL. The Norris family traces their roots back to 1695, pre-dating the founding of America. As a pioneer family, they traveled to Illinois from New York state settling in Blackberry Township outside of Sugar Grove, IL in 1848. Eight generations later, the Norris farm remains within the family.
Adam’s parents, John and Janet, met while attending Northern Illinois University, where both received degrees for teaching. Dual employment was offered in the Herscher school district. John eventually taught history and government for 38 years. Janet taught sixth grade for one year, then gave birth to Adam in the summer. Six siblings followed.
In 1976 and 1978, Adam’s father, John Andrzejewski, as a Democrat, ran for State Representative against George Ryan. Publishing see-no-evil, hear-no-evil and speak-no-evil monkeys in his print advertising, John Andrzejewski made an early issue of government corruption.
See: My Father vs. George Ryan
Prior to graduation from Northern Illinois University, Adam spent his entire life in Herscher. The welcome sign to the town says, “Herscher, Small Town America At Its Best.” The people of Herscher believe the expression and live according to it.
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About Adam