Charles Coffey Wins $25 Million Lotto Max Jackpot in Toronto
Charles Coffey, a retired executive and dedicated philanthropist, recently won $25 million in the Lotto Max jackpot. The 81-year-old initially thought he had won $25,000 but quickly realized the true amount after checking his ticket with reading glasses.
A Life-Changing Gas Station Visit
Coffey had stopped at a North York Shell gas station to fill up his car and pick up a chocolate bar when he decided to check his lottery tickets. At first glance, he believed he had won a smaller amount. Upon closer inspection, he saw he had actually matched the numbers for the January 31 Lotto Max draw, securing the $25 million grand prize.
After confirming the win with a family member, Coffey made his way to claim his prize at the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG).
A Historic Lottery Win
Coffey’s victory is unique in Ontario lottery history. He is the first-ever Officer of the Order of Canada to win a major Lotto Max jackpot.
Originally from New Brunswick, Coffey spent much of his career at RBC, where he championed several causes, including:
- Indigenous rights and reconciliation
- Children’s education and welfare
- Women entrepreneurs and women in leadership
In 2003, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada for his outstanding contributions. Over the years, he has also received the Canadian Women’s International Business Initiative Award and was named an Honorary Chief by the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. In 2012, the University of Winnipeg honored him with the Duff Roblin Award.
Plans for the Winnings
Despite his newfound fortune, Coffey remains committed to philanthropy. He sees this win as an opportunity to further support the causes he has championed for decades.
“This win gives me the opportunity to sustainably support the causes I have championed for decades,” Coffey said.
He expressed a strong desire to provide organizations with a “hand-up” rather than a handout, ensuring they have the resources to amplify their voices and missions. His vision aligns with the Order of Canada’s motto, Desiderantes meliorem patriam—They desire a better country.
Family Celebration and Future Plans
While philanthropy remains a priority, Coffey also plans to use part of his winnings to organize a family vacation. He hopes to create lasting memories with his loved ones, marking this significant milestone in his life.
Coffey purchased the winning Lotto Max ticket at the Shell gas station on Yonge Street in North York. His story serves as an inspiring reminder that life-changing moments can happen anytime, anywhere.
More…
- https://www.toronto.com/news/i-thought-it-said-25-000-torontos-charles-coffey-order-of-canada-officer-wins-25/article_39c91ce0-d7e5-5cbc-a4fc-051faffc09f4.html
- https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-03-20/former-rbc-executive-coffey-wins-17-4-million-lottery-jackpot
- https://toronto.citynews.ca/2025/03/20/olg-lotto-max-jackpot-25-million-january-draw-winner-order-of-canada-officer
