The Choi Family
Family, Faith, and Fairways: The Choi's story weaves together family, golf, and business into a life filled with purpose and connection.
Life at The Cascades in Tyler, TX: How the Choi Family Built a Legacy of Business, Golf, and Community
For many families, finding the right community is about more than choosing a neighborhood—it's about discovering a place where relationships flourish, traditions grow, and future generations can thrive. For Chris and Hee Choi, that place is The Cascades in Tyler, Texas.
Their journey spans continents, careers, and decades of hard work, ultimately leading them to East Texas, where they have built not only successful businesses but also a life centered on family, faith, and service.
From South Korea to Texas
Mr. Choi came to the United States from South Korea in 1986 to pursue a Ph.D. in Physical Education at Texas Christian University.
During a visit home, he met Hee, who was working in fashion design and textiles. Their relationship quickly blossomed, and together they returned to the Dallas–Fort Worth area to begin building a life grounded in family and opportunity.
Following the completion of his doctorate, Mr. Choi became a Grand Master in Tae Kwon Do, mentoring students and operating a successful martial arts school. At the same time, he developed another lifelong passion—golf.
A Passion for Golf Leads to The Cascades
Golf became more than a hobby for Mr. Choi. As a scratch golfer who competed in amateur tournaments, he developed a deep appreciation for the game and the communities built around it. That passion eventually merged with his entrepreneurial vision.
Through M&P Investment Group, the Choi family invested in golf properties throughout Texas, including ownership and operation of The Cascades Country Club in Tyler, along with two additional golf courses.
Today, their work continues to support one of East Texas' premier golf destinations while creating experiences for members, residents, and visitors alike.
Why the Choi Family Chose The Cascades
While business first brought the Chois to Tyler, the people convinced them to stay.
According to the family, one of the things they value most about The Cascades community is the genuine kindness of its residents. Mrs. Choi often speaks about the welcoming spirit that made East Texas feel like home from the very beginning.
For families considering living in The Cascades, it's this combination of beautiful surroundings, championship golf, and close-knit neighbors that makes the community unique.
A Family Built on Different Passions
Although each member of the Choi family has followed a different career path, they remain deeply connected through shared values and a commitment to supporting one another.
Ji Choi
As Director of Operations at The Cascades Country Club, Ji helps oversee daily operations while supporting long-term strategic initiatives that enhance the member experience.
She especially enjoys building relationships with members and staff and helping the club continue to grow. Outside of work, she enjoys Pilates and horseback riding.
Phillip Choi
Phillip inherited both his father's entrepreneurial mindset and his passion for golf.
After competing as a member of the SMU golf team, he joined the family business as a Project Manager. Golf continues to be one of the ways he and his father spend quality time together.
Lauren Choi
Lauren pursued a very different path.
A graduate of Northwestern University, she works as a translational neuroscience researcher, helping bridge scientific discoveries with real-world medical applications that improve patient care.
When she's away from the lab, Lauren enjoys spending time outdoors, especially horseback riding.
Life Beyond Work
Away from the golf course and business, Chris and Hee enjoy spending time at their farm in Denton, where they care for chickens, goats, and other farm animals.
Mrs. Choi is also an avid gardener who enjoys growing flowers, fresh fruits, and vegetables throughout the year.
The family's love of animals extends to Bella, Phillip's rescued Aussie-Rottweiler-Shepherd mix, and Hazel, Lauren's Great Pyrenees.
Faith, Service, and Giving Back
Ask the Choi family what matters most, and the answer isn't business.
Their faith remains at the center of everything they do.
Deeply involved in their church community, Chris and Hee believe success carries a responsibility to serve others. They actively support charitable organizations and invest in people and programs that strengthen East Texas.
More Than a Country Club
For the Choi family, The Cascades represents much more than championship golf or beautiful homes.
It is a community where neighbors become friends, families build lasting memories, and shared values create a true sense of belonging.
Their story reflects what many residents already know—that life at The Cascades is defined not only by its amenities, but by the people who call it home.
Whether enjoying an afternoon on the golf course, gathering with family, or giving back to the community, the Choi family continues to shape the legacy of one of Tyler's most distinctive neighborhoods.