In a heartwarming story of trust and friendship, two Wisconsin men who agreed in 1992 to share any lottery winnings split a $22 million Powerball jackpot earned nearly three decades later.
- Friends from Wisconsin agree to split lottery winnings 28 years ago
- One wins $22 million Powerball jackpot in 2020, shares half
- Both retirees enjoy new financial freedom and time with family
What happened
In 1992, when Powerball was introduced in Wisconsin, two friends from the Menomonie area, Thomas Cook and Joseph Feeney, made a simple yet profound agreement: if either of them won the jackpot, they would split it equally. For 28 years, they faithfully bought tickets every week without truly expecting to win.
Then, in June 2020, Cook checked his numbers and realized he had won a $22 million jackpot. True to their agreement, he immediately called Feeney to share the incredible news. Despite some initial disbelief, the friends followed through on their handshake deal, splitting the prize evenly. After taxes, each man received roughly $5.7 million.
Why it feels good
This story is a reminder of the power of trust and long-lasting friendship. Their commitment wasn’t about the money alone but about keeping a promise made decades earlier, demonstrating loyalty and integrity in a world where such values can sometimes feel rare.
Beyond the financial windfall, both men expressed joy in having the freedom to spend more time with family and pursue comfortable, stress-free retirements. As Cook said, this newfound security allows him to enjoy his grandchildren and great-grandchildren without worrying about money.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those inspired by this tale of friendship and luck, it’s worth following similar stories of community, trust, and unexpected generosity. Exploring lottery winners’ stories often highlights not just the financial gains but the human connections and life changes involved.
If you’re feeling lucky, Thomas Cook even bought two more tickets after winning—showing that hope and the simple joy of playing can continue. Meanwhile, local news and future lottery draws remain a source of excitement for communities across Wisconsin and beyond.