3-minute read
Editor’s note: this story was updated to correct Boring’s mother’s name.
Allan Dean Boring III, known around Lakeland as Dean Boring, died May 30, 2026, at the age of 77.
The former Lakeland city commissioner and longtime business owner was a central part of Lakeland’s history and culture. Boring spent decades serving the Lakeland community through his business, public service, and civic involvement.
“What Dean meant to this community goes beyond business success,” said Par Sahota, CEO of Boring Business Systems. “He was known for his commitment to local organizations, civic involvement, and the belief that strong companies should be active members of the communities they serve.”
Boring was born in Lakeland on September 4, 1948, to Allan Dean Boring Jr. and Grace Myers Boring. The fourth generation Lakeland resident graduated from Lakeland Senior High School in 1966, then went on to dedicate the rest of his life to the family business, Boring Business Systems. Boring worked his way up the ladder and became the owner and president of the family technology business — which began as the Lakeland Typewriter & Supply Co. in 1924.
During his time at the helm, Boring evolved from a traditional office equipment company into a managed technology services provider for businesses throughout Central Florida.
“Dean Boring’s legacy is reflected not only in the growth of Boring Business Systems but in the culture he helped create,” Sahota said. “For decades, he guided the company through tremendous change — from traditional office equipment to managed technology services — while keeping people at the center of every decision.”
Carol Catanzarite, Boring’s chief financial officer, said the company’s leadership helped create a workplace that felt more like a family than a business.
“Over the years Dean Boring was always a forward-thinking president, staying ahead of the changes in the office business industry,” Catanzarite said. She added that his emphasis on a family-oriented culture and community involvement encouraged employees to become active in civic organizations, including Lakeland Rotary and Sertoma Club.
“I truly appreciate the opportunities that Dean gave me in business and also making me feel like family,” she said.
Boring’s hard-working spirit was not confined to the private sector. Among other community involvements, Boring also served as a Lakeland City Commissioner for 10 years. Boring ran unopposed for both terms.
He took his responsibility as commissioner very seriously and worked hard to do what he believed was best for the people of Lakeland. His colleague, former Commissioner Anne Furr, remembers him as a thoughtful leader who approached public service with humility.
“For many years, Commissioner Dean Boring faithfully served the people of Lakeland with honor, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the public good,” Furr said in a statement.
Boring was involved in a variety of civic, charitable, and professional organizations over the years, and his Christian faith remained a central part of his life. According to those close to him, he was a firm believer in serving others and giving back to the community that supported his family.
“His legacy is reflected not only in the progress of Lakeland but also in the example he set through a life of service, character, and dedication,” Furr said.
Boring’s death marks the loss of a figure whose life was inextricably linked with Lakeland’s history. He helped shape the community he called home for nearly eight decades.
He is survived by his wife, Harriet Boring, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brothers, and other relatives.
For many in Lakeland, Allan Dean Boring III will be remembered as a businessman, public servant, and neighbor whose influence will be felt throughout the community.
latest news
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
