Summit Packaging Systems founder Gordon Gilroy dies at 101

Gordon Crossman Gilroy, 101, passed away peacefully at his home in Bedford, New Hampshire, on January 27, 2026. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, a WWII Navy veteran, and revered businessman, Gordon left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Those who met Gordon never forgot him.

Gordon was born on November 11, 1924, in Nova Scotia to Oman and Evelyn Gilroy. When he was just 6 months old, the family immigrated to Boston, Massachusetts. An only child, Gordon ultimately settled in Needham, Massachusetts, where he spent his childhood and formative years.

Gordon Gilroy

At the age of 17, with his father’s signature, Gordon enlisted in the United States Navy. He served from 1942 until his honorable discharge in 1946, holding the rank of Pharmacist’s Mate (Medic). During his service, Gordon was part of an air-to-sea rescue unit before completing his tour stateside. Upon discharge, he returned home to Needham to reunite with his family.

Gordon arrived home on a Thursday, only to be informed by his mother that he would be returning to high school the following Monday. He completed his degree at Needham High School and went on to attend Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. While at Trinity, Gordon worked full-time as a laboratory technician at Hartford Hospital, a testament to his discipline and work ethic. He completed his college degree in just three years and entered the workforce shortly thereafter.

Gordon began his professional career in sales with Continental Can and Crown Cork & Seal before embarking on what would become a pivotal 20-year career with Precision Valve, beginning in 1954. During this period, Gordon met and married Elisabeth Ward through a mutual friend. Gordon and Elisabeth — known to all as “Liz”—made their home in Westchester County, New York, where they raised their three children: Gordon “Chip,” Scott, and Elisabeth “Betsy.”

In 1976, drawing on his deep experience in the aerosol valve industry and driven by a lifelong entrepreneurial vision, Gordon made his dream of business ownership a reality when he purchased Scovill Aerosol Valve in Manchester, New Hampshire. Under Gordon’s leadership and direction, the company evolved into what is now known as Summit Packaging Systems.

The 1970s were a challenging time for the aerosol industry amid concerns over fluorocarbons. Despite these obstacles, Gordon expanded the business, acquiring a second facility in Racine, Wisconsin. This strategic move allowed Summit to increase sales, reduce domestic shipping costs, and better serve its growing customer base. As Summit’s position in the industry strengthened, the company expanded globally, supplying aerosol valves worldwide. Today, Summit operates facilities in the Netherlands, Poland, Argentina, Mexico, and multiple locations across the United States, manufacturing and shipping more than five billion aerosol valves annually.

Gordon built his business on the belief that vertical integration was key to controlling cost, quality, and delivery. More importantly, he built it on people. He developed deep, enduring relationships with customers and employees alike, taking great pride in their longevity. Gordon often said, “You can’t have a business without people. Take care of the people who take care of you.” Many of his professional relationships spanned more than 50 years.

In his later years, Gordon transitioned operational control of the company to his son Scott. Gordon and Liz spent their winters in Marco Island, Florida, while continuing to travel the world together, attending social events, and visiting family and friends.  Gordon would always say “family first”, taking every opportunity to spend as much time with his family as he could.  Gordon was an avid golfer, skier, hunter, and fisherman —pursuits that took him across the globe, and that led to many lifelong friendships.

After the passing of his beloved wife, Gordon returned to his now three-generation family business: the business that he had created. He referred to this chapter as “waving the flag,” attending meetings and visiting with employees daily — something he continued to do until the age of 100. Gordon will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He truly embodied the American Dream.

Gordon was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Elisabeth “Liz” Ward Gilroy; his son, Gordon “Chip” Gilroy; and his daughter, Elisabeth “Betsy” Gilroy Van Duren. He is survived by his son, Scott Gilroy; nine grandchildren: Mark Gilroy, Seth Gilroy, Reed Gilroy, Sarah Stillman, Bridget Shepard, Madelyn Gilroy, Amanda Van Duren, Emily Van Duren, Sander Van Duren, and eight great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 21, 2026 at the Manchester Country Club, Bedford, New Hampshire, from 2 to 6 p.m.