LL#120: $1 million retiree lottery winner kept his windfall hidden from wife
/Raymond Hazell hit the jackpot by winning $1 million from a scratch-off lottery ticket.
He had been saving small amounts from his paychecks for years to afford his lottery hobby in retirement.
And he wanted to make the win a big surprize for his wife.
His plan to surprise his wife, Elizabeth, was executed perfectly, leaving her in shock and amazement at how he managed to keep such a big secret until he could surprise her with roses, champagne, and the check.
He said his wife questioned afterward and asked, ‘How did you do it?’”
Raymond, 69, started his lottery fund by setting aside $10 to $15 from each paycheck, planning to enjoy this hobby more freely once he retired.
His methodical savings over 20 years, while working at the Newton assessors' department for 27 years, paid off spectacularly.
The win came as a result of a ticket bought on a Monday, which left Raymond in disbelief at his luck.
His winning ticket in the “$4,000,000 Gold Bullion” game came from Hopkinton Wine & Spirits, and he chose to take home $650,000 in cash before taxes.
Talking about his strategy, Raymond shared that saving a little from each paycheck over his working years allowed him to continue playing the lottery into his retirement without financial strain.
With the winnings, Raymond has plans to pay off their summer home's mortgage and invest in some home renovations.
