Kenneth Leslie Thorpe

Background

Thorpe, Kenneth Leslie was born on April 17, 1929 in Dearborn, Michigan, United States. Son of Harold Leslie and Mary Elizabeth (Tate) Thorpe.

Education

BMechE, Wayne State University, 1955. Master of Science in Automotive Engineering, Chrysler Institute, 1957.

Career

Staff engineer Chrysler Corporation, Detroit, 1957-1963. Chief engineer Chrysler Barreiros, Madrid, 1963-1965. Director operations Chrysler South Africa, Capetown, 1965-1971.

General administrative manager TRW/Cam Gears, Hitchin Herts, United Kingdom, 1971-1972. Chairman, managing director American Machine and Foundry/Harley-Davidson Varese, Italy, 1972-1979. President American Machine and Foundry/Harley-Davidson Golf Cars, Milwaukee, 1979-1981.

Managing director Borg-Warner Ltd., Kenfig, United Kingdom, 1981-1983. Vice president general manager Transmission division Borg-Warner, Muncie, Indiana, 1983-1986. Executive vice president, general manager Society Manufacturing Engineers, Dearborn, since 1986.

Achievements

• Kenneth Leslie Thorpe has been listed as a noteworthy automotive executive, professional by Marquis Who's Who.

Membership

President Redford Township Junior Chamber of Commerce, Michigan, 1962. Board directors Muncie Symphony Orchestra, 1984-1986, United Fund, Munci, 1984-1986. Vice chairman East Center Private Industry Council, Muncie, 1983-1986.

Served to corporal United States Army, 1951-1953, Korea. Member Society Manufacturing Engineers, Society Automotive Engineers.

Interests

• Music, golf, travel.

Connections

Married Mary Elaine Howell. Children: Kevin, Katherine, Karen, Jonathan.