Kingsville man hits the Hogs for Hospice jackpot

By Mark Ribble

KINGSVILLE — When Gary Lauzon got the call last Friday from the Hogs for Hospice committee, he couldn’t believe he’d just won $120,170 in the first annual Hogs for Hospice 50/50 draw.

The fundraiser was underway for the last three weeks and at press time last week, the prize had just climbed to over $50,000. In the final three days, that prize more than doubled.

“I’m still in shock,” said Lauzon. “I just made a donation and thought it was a good thing to do.”

On Monday, August 17, members of the Hogs for Hospice committee, along with Erie Shores Health Foundation Executive Director Christine Colautti, converged upon Lauzon’s home in Kingsville to present the cheque.

The 10-year employee of D&T Auto Parts in Leamington, was blown away by the big win.

“I thought it was a prank,” he said. “I’m still spinning.”

Lauzon’s boss had recently come to him to ask about his future plans and how many more years he wanted to work.

“I told him I have another 10 years in me,” he said.

“Guess what, boss!” he joked.

Lauzon praised the Hogs committee for the work they do in the community.

Hogs for Hospice 50/50 raffle winner Gary Lauzon. Sun photo

“You guys are phenomenal,” he said. “I realize all the work you put in.”

Hogs committee member Joe Oswald commented that it was unique to be giving away all that money.

“We are so used to presenting a big cheque to the hospice, but it’s different to be presenting a big cheque to one lucky supporter,” he said.

Oswald was quick to thank their sponsors for all their help.

“If not for the support of the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers, CIBC Wood Gundy, Seabrook Financial Group and Christine Colautti at the Erie Shores Health Foundation, we wouldn’t be able to do what we did here,” he said. “We are forever grateful to them.”

As for Lauzon, he has no immediate plans for the cash, but has fielded some unusual offers.

“I’ve had two online offers of marriage and someone who has asked to be adopted,” he laughed.

The father of two sons and long-time supporter of the Hogs for Hospice event, has been giving to the organization for years.

“I get a nice thank-you note from Christine every year,” he said.

This year’s thank-you note — the cheque — was much nicer and Colautti was thrilled to be a part of it.

“Gary is a very deserving recipient,” she said.

KINGSVILLE — Hogs for Hospice 50/50 winner Gary Lauzon, middle, was surrounded by a happy group of Hogs volunteers. From left are Tim Iles, Donny Pacheco, Benji Mastronardi, Gary Lauzon, Dave Hodare, Joe Oswald, ESHF Executive Director Christine Colautti and Brian Cornies. Absent was Hogs committee member Kevin Safrance.