Minnesota Siblings' $22.8 Million Lotto America Win

Debbie Kujava and her brother Dennis Kujava became the center of attention in their northern Minnesota community after a Lotto America ticket purchased by Debbie won a $22.8 million jackpot.

The ticket was bought as part of a Jackpot Bundle at Holiday Stationstores in Roseau, Minnesota. Debbie selected the cash option, reported as $13.5 million before required withholding.

A family agreement shaped the prize

The siblings had previously agreed to share lottery winnings. Debbie split the prize with Dennis, and Dennis later shared part of his portion with his daughters, Denise and Deanna.

The story is useful as an example of why informal family arrangements can become important very quickly after a large win. Anyone participating in a lottery pool or sharing agreement is better served by documenting the arrangement before a winning ticket exists.

Life after the claim

Reports described Debbie retiring after decades as a licensed practical nurse and Dennis, already retired, continuing to spend time around his farm.

They made purchases, paid bills and planned charitable giving, but the story also emphasized that the siblings did not immediately transform every part of their lives.

The family also experienced the less comfortable side of publicity, including unsolicited requests for money.

Historical context

This was a Lotto America win, not a Mega Millions jackpot.

The personal details and tax figures in this story come from reports at the time and should not be treated as general advice.

The broader lesson is not that a particular playing method produced the win. It is that a large prize can create family, privacy, tax and planning questions almost immediately.