Former NPGA chairman, Arizona marketer dies

Charlie Ory, a former chairman of the board for the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA), has died.

Charlie and Teri Ory of Family Propane at the 2018 LP Gas Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Atlanta. Photo by LP Gas staff

He was a valued leader of the Arizona Propane Gas Association (APGA). Serving in nearly every capacity possible over the past few decades, his input and involvement was critical in sustaining the organization throughout the years, says the APGA.

In 2018, Ory was granted honorary life membership on the APGA board of directors. Additionally, the APGA board unanimously decided to honor Ory by establishing a scholarship in his name.

Ory started his career in New Orleans. He was first introduced to the propane industry during his time as a route-man at Frito-Lay. Eventually, he presided over the company’s propane vehicle fleet before leaving Frito-Lay to commit to propane full time.

Ory purchased Aero Propane in Apache Junction, Arizona, in the 1990s. In 2012, Ory bought out his partner and became the owner of Aero Propane, now known as Family Propane. Ory sold Family Propane in 2017 but remained active within the industry.

Ory’s memorial service will be held on Nov. 16 in Mesa, Arizona.