In a remarkable turn of events, Charles Coffey, an 81-year-old retired banker from Toronto, recently found himself $25 million richer after winning the Lotto Max jackpot in the January 31, 2025 draw. The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) has revealed that this historic win marks the first time an Officer of the Order of Canada — a prestigious honor bestowed upon him in 2003 — has won such a significant lottery prize in Ontario.
Coffey's win, however, had a rather amusing twist. While at a local gas station in North York to fill up his vehicle and indulge in his favorite chocolate bar, Coffey checked his lottery tickets on a self-scanner. Initially, he believed one ticket was worth $25,000, as he didn’t have his glasses on. “I thought I saw $25,000 and said to myself, ‘That’s interesting,’” he recounted. It wasn't until he retrieved his glasses and scanned the ticket again that he realized the astonishing truth: it was actually a $25 million ticket!
Excitement surged through Coffey as he hurried home to verify his extraordinary find. “When we finally accepted the fact that the ticket was worth $25 million, someone suggested they take my pulse to make sure I was alive and seeing the amount of the win,” he laughingly noted.
Coffey, who was raised in a small town in New Brunswick as the seventh of nine siblings, spent years championing various causes across Canada, particularly those related to Indigenous peoples, children, and women’s empowerment. His extensive dedication to public service is celebrated widely, and the OLG has recognized his commitment.
“For years, Charlie has championed causes in Toronto and across Canada, involving Indigenous peoples, children and early childhood development, women entrepreneurs and women in public office, as well as education and diversity,” the OLG stated in an official release.
With this life-altering windfall, Coffey plans to amplify his support for these causes. “I believe in the premise of a hand-up versus a handout and want to support organizations that need a stronger voice. The motto for the Order of Canada is ‘They desire a better country,’ and that speaks to me,” he expressed. He remains committed to improving the lives of those less fortunate, specifically focusing on marginalized communities.
Additionally, Coffey is looking forward to planning a family holiday to celebrate the win. “I'm excited to plan a wonderful family holiday so that we can celebrate and make more precious memories together,” he mentioned. His celebratory spirit is infused with a sense of responsibility, eager to make a difference in the lives of others.
Ultimately, Charlie bought the winning $25 million ticket at the Shell gas station located on Yonge Street in North York. His incredible story not only showcases the joy and surprise that come with winning a life-changing lottery prize but also highlights the continued dedication of a man whose life has been devoted to service and philanthropy. With a focus on a better future for his community and country, Coffey embodies the true spirit of hope and generosity.
