The Entrepreneurial Journey: Building a Legacy
Kris Thorkelson’s success as a prominent entrepreneur is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and vision. Born on August 6, 1968, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Kris grew up on a farm near Riverton, surrounded by family values and a close-knit community. From a young age, he learned the importance of teamwork, discipline, and a strong work ethic—lessons that would later become the cornerstones of his success.
In 2010, Kris entered the real estate market, beginning with a single apartment building. What started as a modest investment quickly evolved into Thorwin Properties, a thriving real estate company that now manages over 2,400 apartment units across Winnipeg. Under Kris’s leadership, Thorwin Properties has become known for its quality rental housing and excellent resident service, earning a strong reputation in Winnipeg’s competitive real estate market.
Yet, despite the demands of building and leading a successful company, Kris Thorkelson remains committed to maintaining balance in his life. He believes true success is about more than professional accomplishments—it’s about creating harmony between work, family, and personal passions.
The Importance of Family in Kris Thorkelson’s Life
For Kris, family has always been at the heart of his life. Growing up alongside his three sisters on the Manitoba prairies, he developed a deep appreciation for family bonds and the support they provide. Those values remain a driving force for Kris today.
As an entrepreneur, it’s easy to let work take over, but Kris has made it a priority to be present for his family. Whether it’s spending quality time together at home or creating cherished memories through travel and shared experiences, Kris views family as the foundation of his success.
Balancing entrepreneurship and family life requires intentionality. Kris understands that the same principles that drive a successful business—commitment, patience, and focus—apply to family as well. Just as he nurtures Thorwin Properties, he also invests in his relationships with the people he loves most. By prioritizing family time, Kris ensures that he stays grounded and connected to what truly matters.
Finding Balance Through Personal Passions
While entrepreneurship and family are central to Kris’s life, he also recognizes the importance of pursuing personal passions. For Kris, activities like golf, tennis, and travel serve as a way to recharge, stay focused, and maintain balance.
Golf and Tennis
Sports have played a significant role in Kris’s life from an early age. Growing up, he was an avid sports enthusiast, and that passion has continued into adulthood. Golf and tennis are more than just hobbies for Kris—they are opportunities to unwind, clear his mind, and challenge himself outside of work.
Both sports require discipline, focus, and strategy, qualities that mirror Kris’s approach to entrepreneurship. The lessons learned on the golf course or tennis court—patience, adaptability, and perseverance—are the same principles that drive his success in real estate.
The Joy of Travel
Travel is another passion that helps Kris maintain balance in his life. Exploring new destinations, experiencing different cultures, and spending time away from the demands of work allows him to gain fresh perspectives. Travel provides an opportunity to step back, reflect, and recharge, which in turn helps him approach his work with renewed energy and creativity.
For Kris, travel is also a chance to connect with family, creating shared experiences and lifelong memories. Whether it’s a relaxing getaway or an adventurous trip, travel reinforces the balance between work and personal fulfillment.
The Role of Discipline in Achieving Balance
Achieving balance between work, family, and personal interests doesn’t happen by accident—it requires discipline and intentional choices. Kris Thorkelson approaches balance in the same way he approaches his business: with focus, planning, and commitment.
Running a company like Thorwin Properties comes with significant responsibilities, but Kris believes that setting boundaries and managing time effectively are key to maintaining harmony. He emphasizes the importance of being fully present, whether he’s in a business meeting, enjoying a family dinner, or playing a round of golf. By dedicating his full attention to the task at hand, Kris ensures that each aspect of his life gets the care it deserves.
This discipline allows Kris to thrive both personally and professionally. By maintaining balance, he not only achieves success in business but also enjoys a fulfilling personal life—one that includes time for family, hobbies, and self-care.
Giving Back: A Passion for Community
Part of Kris Thorkelson’s approach to balance includes giving back to the community. He believes that success is most meaningful when it is shared with others. Through his support of organizations like Agape Table, which provides meals to vulnerable populations, and Canadian Lutheran World Relief, which assists communities in need around the world, Kris demonstrates a commitment to making a positive impact.
For Kris, philanthropy is a natural extension of his values. Just as he strives to provide quality housing through Thorwin Properties, he also seeks to uplift others through meaningful contributions to his community. Giving back reinforces Kris’s belief that success isn’t measured solely by professional achievements, but by the difference one can make in the lives of others.
The Legacy of Balance
Kris Thorkelson’s ability to blend entrepreneurship, family, and personal passions is a reflection of his thoughtful approach to life. While building Thorwin Properties into a leading real estate brand has been a remarkable achievement, Kris understands that true success is about more than professional milestones.
By prioritizing family, pursuing personal interests, and giving back to the community, Kris has created a life of balance and purpose. His story serves as an inspiration for others—showing that it’s possible to achieve great success while remaining grounded, fulfilled, and connected to what matters most.
Kris Thorkelson’s legacy is one of harmony, leadership, and meaningful impact. As he continues to guide Thorwin Properties into the future, he remains a testament to the power of balance in achieving a truly successful and fulfilling life.