About

About J & R Collision Centers

- OEM Certified
- All Insurance Plans Accepted
- Same-Day Estimates Available

Learn More About Our Collision Center

The multi-generational duo of Roger and Jake Buhnerkempe stretches back across decades. The father and son team’s rich history in the automotive collision repair market dates back to 1980.

Roger Buhnerkempe grew up on the family farm outside of Teutopolis, Illinois. His interest in cars grew throughout his upbringing. In 1979, he began working on vehicles in the old chicken house on the farm.

In 1980 he leased an old two-bay gas station located on North Third Street in Effingham, starting his adventure, then known as “Roger’s Body Shop."

In 1982, he purchased a building on East Jefferson in Effingham. Throughout the next decade, he would grow his business considerably, expanding / renovating, and adding buildings and additions four times.

In the spring of 1993, Roger began plans for a brand new “Mega shop” facility, to be located in the industrial park in Effingham. Roger traveled across several states to see the newest equipment, as well as the technology available to outfit this new facility.

This 25,000 sq foot facility would be on the leading edge and pioneer a new direction for the collision repair industry. One trade magazine even labeled it “The shop of the future." Roger always remained on the leading edge. He was the first in the downstate region to have a downdraft paint booth, resistance spot welder, computerized estimating, and numerous other industry firsts.

In the fall of 1993, he moved into his new 25,000 sq foot facility and continued his growth. The new collision center, under his direction, was capable of streamlining several repair processes which led to incredible cycle times, getting the customers back in their vehicles faster.

The location peaked at an astounding 100+ vehicles repaired each month.

In 2001, Roger was approached by a businessman, also in the trade, inquiring about a purchase. In 2002, Roger sold Roger’s Body Shop.

Jake Buhnerkempe grew up very much in his father’s footsteps. Jake spent much of his adolescence in the body shop. After the sale of Roger’s Body Shop, Jake became active in the fire service. He spent time serving with a couple of local departments in the Effingham area, before moving to St Louis, Missouri.

He accepted a position and spent 6 years working for the city fire department. During his time there, he followed a childhood dream and in 2010 started a body shop.

Jake’s Collision Repair was founded in February 2010. Jake leased a building on South Kingshighway in South City, St Louis, and began growing a collision center of his own. The business grew quickly and in 2012 they moved to a new facility on Hampton Avenue in South City.

After countless hours of discussion and planning, in 2014 J & R Collision Centers was formed. Two great paths combining for an incredible outcome. With generations and decades of experience, both in small and large markets, J & R Collision Centers brings you the best choice for collision repair.

Jake and Roger partnered to build a brand new, first-class facility, once again, near their roots, in Effingham, IL.

Jake’s Collision Center in St Louis has now been rebranded to Jake’s – J&R Collision Centers. Jake and Roger are humbled by the clients that entrust their vehicles to them for their accident restorations, in both St Louis and Effingham areas.