Most people can only dream of what they'd spend their millions on if they were lucky enough to win the lottery but one couple who got to live that reality used their newfound wealth to build a community water park for the local kids, naming the structure after their parents in a heartfelt tribute.
John and Linda Kutey knew exactly what they wanted to do with their lottery winnings: give back to the community and somehow honour their parents. The Kutey's, who hail from Green Island, New York said they visited the mayor to get an idea on what they could do to make the town a little better.
The married couple was surprised when the Mayor and other city officials suggested they invest in the construction of a community water park.
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But with little hesitation, John and Linda put up $200,000 (£156,159) toward the park's construction, which would give local families a cool, cost-friendly place to beat the summer heat. The total cost of the spray park amounted to $250,000 (£195,212) and two local businesses, Albany Engineering Corp and Grimm Building Materials, volunteered to build the structure.
The spray park replaced an ancient wading pool that was bulldozed before construction began. Because the park was funded purely by donations, taxpayers didn't have to reach into their pockets. As for John and Linda's second goal, the spray park was constructed in honour of Edmund Ostrowski and his late wife Gertrude Ostrowski, and Joseph and Mercedes Kutey.
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It took a while, but the spray park was finally opened in July 2013 as summer had reached its peak. John, along with seven of his co-workers snagged the $319 million (£249,073,605) Mega Millions jackpot, which had been the largest that year. The cash was split seven ways with John and Linda's winnings amounting to $28.7 million (£21,862,260) Once taxes were taken out, the couple returned home with $19 million (£14,835,105).
Since donating a hefty sum towards the spray park, John and Linda have been largely silent since winning the lottery in 2011. While the pair haven't been vocal about any new donations or projects, they have reportedly spent some money on a new home in Florida, according to the Albany Times Union.
The publication claimed that John quit his job in 2011 shortly after sharing a winning lotto ticket with seven of his co-workers. This means the Kutey's left Green Island for Florida as the spray park was getting built.
Before his big win, John worked at the New York State Homes and Community Renewal, which is the state's affordable housing agency. In a touching revelation, the two returned to their hometown two years later to indulge in the park's grand opening.