• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • About
  • Forum
  • Design Studio
  • Upholstery Jobs
  • Newsletter
  • Sponsors

The Hog Ring

Auto Upholstery Community

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter

Trimmer James Bechtel Dies at 84

May 7, 2026 By Nadeem

The Hog Ring - Trimmer James Bechtel Dies at 84

Trimmer James Bechtel of Lima, Ohio, has died at age 84.

James was born on March 1, 1942 in Lima, where he spent most of his life.

He ran an auto upholstery business, Classic Auto Trim, and was an avid fan of classic cars. James also worked for Ford Motor Company for 30 years.

In his off time, James enjoyed drag racing, deer hunting and watching the Cleveland Browns, according to his obituary.

Sadly, James died on April 13, 2026. He is survived by his wife, Sondra Joan Bechtel; children, Deborah Henry, Dawn Coburn and James Bechtel Jr.; grandchildren, Matthew Shumaker, Mallory Berrios and Morgan Sergeant; great-grandchildren, Isaiah Shumaker, Wyatt “Gus” Shumaker, Evan Myers, Delilah Coburn, Emerson Sergeant and Hunter Berrios; and sister, Karen Van Horn.

May he Rest in Peace.

Filed Under: Archive, Obituary Tagged With: Auto Trim, Auto Upholstery, Car Interior, Classic Auto Trim

Primary Sidebar

THR Sponsors

NC Sewing Machines
Miami Corporation - Right Rail Ad 3
  • MasterTech Expo 2026
  • OEM+ Banner Ad - The Hog Ring
  • Douglass Interior Products
  • Hyde Leather
  • Keyston Bros
  • Albright's Supply

THR Favorites

Auto Upholstery - The Hog Ring - Design Studio - Chevrolet Chevelle

Design Studio: 1968-72 Chevelle Door Panel

We’re continuing our popular door panel … [more] about Design Studio: 1968-72 Chevelle Door Panel

Harley-Davidson on the Nature of Leather

I found a tag attached to the bottom of a … [more] about Harley-Davidson on the Nature of Leather

The Hog Ring - This Shop Launched a 4-Day Work Week

This Shop Launched a 4-Day Work Week

Advanced RV recently took part in an … [more] about This Shop Launched a 4-Day Work Week

Auto Upholstery - The Hog Ring - Bentley Motors Leather Shop

A Visit to Bentley Motors’ Leather Workshop

We know that Bentley Motors creates some of … [more] about A Visit to Bentley Motors’ Leather Workshop

Auto Upholstery News - The Hog Ring - Carlex Design - Mercedes-Benz SLS Black Series

Carlex Design Trims a Mercedes SLS AMG

What happens when Polish automotive trim shop … [more] about Carlex Design Trims a Mercedes SLS AMG

Auto Upholstery - The Hog Ring - Molded Automotive Carpet

How Molded Vehicle Carpets are Made

Have you ever wondered how automotive carpet … [more] about How Molded Vehicle Carpets are Made

Categories

Footer

Recent Articles

  • Choosing the Right Grommet for Long Lasting Performance
  • Trimmer James Bechtel Dies at 84
  • The Iran War and a Texas Plant Fire are Driving Foam Prices Higher
  • Register Now for the 2026 AAPEX Show
  • 2026 SEMA Show Registration Now Open

Recent Comments

  • Edward Munday on Hidden Mouse Nest? How to Charge for the Extra Dirty Work
  • Jack on Keyston Bros. Acquires DLT Corporation
  • Brodie Smith on Aston Martin Just Introduced a New Convertible DB12
  • THE CAPTAIN on 6 Tips for Turning Callers into Customers
  • Dmei on Star Wars Seat Covers are ‘So Wizard’

Advertise With Us!

We're always looking for companies to collaborate with. Watch this short video about the benefits of sponsorship and then email us to say hi.

Copyright © 2026 · Magazine Pro On Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in