Robert "RJ" James Pickel

Robert James Pickel (RJ) (Jim) passed away on November 10, 2024. He leaves behind his wife Valerie, daughter Ashley, stepson Jason (Nicole), grandson Phoenix and many many friends. He was born in Chicago on August 13, 1954 to Robert (Bobbie) and Luanne Pickel. The family moved to Dundee where he went to school. After graduating in 1972 he learned how to upholster and opened his first shop. Over the years he had a van shop in Rockford where he custom converted fun vans. In the late 70’s he opened a shop in Oregon and finally built his own shop on his property in 2006. He upholstered everything from bar stools, airplanes, boats, furniture and beautiful fainting couches. He also produced llama and alpaca show coats and various other items for llamas and horses which were sold worldwide. He loved life and loved to make people laugh. He was always coming up with goofy one-liners, totally politically incorrect jokes, and spontaneous antics. He was a joy to be around even when his jokes were ridiculous. He loved Hawaiian shirts which he wore in the winter over his long underwear. He will be greatly missed by many. 

A celebration of life will be held on January 11, 2025 from 3:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at the Oregon, Illinois VFW. 

In his memory, donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital are appreciated.