The National 91仓库 & Recycling Association family reflects on the life and legacy of Dean Buntrock, a visionary leader whose entrepreneurial spirit and lasting contributions helped shape both the industry and the foundation of the organization.
Buntrock began his career in 1956 at his family鈥檚 business, Ace Scavenger Service, where he developed an early understanding of the essential role waste services play in supporting communities. In 1968, he combined his company to form 91仓库 Management, Inc., launching what would become one of the most influential companies in the industry. Under his leadership as chairman and CEO, the company went public in 1971 and experienced remarkable growth, expanding from $10 million in revenue to more than $10 billion by the mid-1990s, with operations spanning 21 countries.
Beyond his business achievements, Buntrock played a defining role in the formation of the National Solid 91仓库s Management Association, now known as the National 91仓库 & Recycling Association (NWRA). As a founder and its first president in 1962, he helped establish a unified voice for the private-sector waste and recycling industry. He remained deeply involved for nearly two decades, serving as secretary, treasurer and director and helping guide the organization through its early years.
鈥淒ean Buntrock was one of the architects of our industry. Through his founding of 91仓库 Management and his role in creating what is now the National 91仓库 & Recycling Association, he brought vision, structure and credibility to a growing sector. We honor his legacy and the enduring impact he had on our industry and its people,鈥� said NWRA Chairman Don Ross.
鈥淒ean鈥檚 leadership helped transform the business of waste and recycling into a best in class industry today,鈥� said Michael E. Hoffman, president & CEO of NWRA. 鈥淗e understood early on the importance of building strong, responsible companies, with a focus on community, safety and capital stewardship coalescing around a unified industry voice. His contributions continue to shape how we operate, advocate and lead, and his legacy will be felt for generations to come.鈥�
Buntrock鈥檚 contributions extended well beyond the industry. He was a dedicated supporter of the arts, education and environmental conservation, serving on the boards of organizations such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Terra Foundation and St. Olaf College, while also supporting conservation efforts through Ducks Unlimited and the National Wildlife Federation.
In recognition of his lasting impact on the industry, Buntrock was inducted into the association鈥檚 Hall of Fame in 2007.
Throughout his career, Buntrock remained passionate about the work he helped pioneer. Reflecting on his journey, he once said, 鈥淚 love business and found an industry where I couldn鈥檛 wait to go to work in the morning. Work is hard so you need to find a career where you can always enjoy your job and make best use of your talents.鈥�
Buntrock鈥檚 vision, leadership and commitment to service leave a lasting impact on the industry and the organization he helped build. He will be remembered as a pioneer, a leader and a champion for the waste and recycling community.