Wente Big Winner of Sacred Heart Drawing, and He Didn't Even Buy a Ticket

Francis Wente of Teutopolis didn't even purchase a ticket for the big raffle, yet his name was drawn as the grand prize winner at the Sacred Heart Parish Picnic on Sunday night.

The 88-year-old Wente's daughter, Pat, presented Francis with a book of tickets on Father's Day, just as she has done for the past 25 years. This Father's Day, when he opened the gift, he said "In all these years, I've never won anything....maybe this is my year." It was his year indeed!

Francis and his wife, Pauletta, discussed their options for three days -- even driving by the church to look at the car a couple of times. In the end, they decided to take the cash, which after taxes is more than $11,000. They plan to help their grandchildren with some money for college, and would also like to help the Lillyville Church with a small construction project its currently completing.

"I'm truly blessed," said Mr. Wente. "When I think about all my blessings, I can't help but get tears in my eyes as I thank the Lord for all He's given me."