Monticello man wins lottery on way to work, still works full day

INDIANAPOLIS (WLFI) - A father of three walked into the factory where he works Monday morning with a big secret – he had just purchased a winning lottery ticket worth $100,000 on his way to work.

Steven Bonnell of Monticello didn’t turn around and go home after buying the ticket, but he wasn’t able to keep it a secret at long at the plastics factory where he works.

“I was shaking so bad and (was) so nervous,” Bonnell said. “One of the guys finally said, ‘What’s wrong with you? You’re making us nervous. You’re trembling.’”

Bonnell says he couldn’t keep it under his hat any longer. He said, “I just won $100,000!”

He says his co-workers cheered and congratulated him. They were so thrilled for him, they urged him to take the day off to celebrate, but Bonnell refused. He says he put in his eight hours of work, although it may have been difficult at times to concentrate.

"This made my day, made my Christmas and made my kids' Christmas!" said Bonnell.

Bonnell purchased his lucky ticket at Delphi Mara Mart at 900 S. Washington St., where he stops for coffee every day on his way to work.

Some days he buys a lottery ticket. Some days he doesn't. But, he's glad he opted to make the purchase Monday.

Bonnell plans to use his winnings for his three children's education. Bonnell has one in high school, one in college and one that just graduated from Ball State.

"We've worked in factories all our lives," Bonnell said.

His wife chimed in as well.

“This will help make it a lot easier,” Brenda Bonnell said.