Ryan Becker of Cresco claimed the fifth of eight top prizes of $50,000 available in the Iowa Lottery’s “7 Is A Blast” scratch game.
“You always hear about somebody else hitting it big and it would be nice (to win the lottery) just once,” Becker told lottery employees Wednesday as he claimed his prize at the lottery’s regional office in Mason City.
Becker said he bought his winning ticket May 9 at Cresco Mart, 202 Second Ave. SW in Cresco and knew right away that he’d won.
The 57-year-old said he recently lost his wife, his Mom and several other family members and he believes that these loved ones were looking down on him during this time.
“I think my Mom had something to do with it because my Mom always told me, ‘One of these days you’re going to hit it big,'” Becker said.
When a store clerk confirmed his big win, Becker said he called his daughter right away to let her know his good news.
“I think my ears are still ringing (from her screaming),” he said.
Becker said he plans to use a portion of his winnings to pay bills and buy a newer pickup truck. Additionally, in honor of his late wife, Becker said he plans to donate some of his winnings.
“My wife used to help others and everything and I’d do it in her honor,” he said.
The 7 Is A Blast scratch game is a $5 ticket.
