They are the latest winners of the California SuperLotto Plus ticket valued at $20 million. Their odds of winning were 1 in 41 million.
They say they can't believe it, but it's getting easier to with an enormous check in hand.
Instead of the $20 million, the couple will receive their winnings in a lump sum payment of $14.2 million.
As for their big plans: "One of my kids suggested we get the whole family together and take a cruise to Alaska," John Crippen said.
The Crippens bought the winning ticket at a Chevron in Rancho Mirage near their home. As is his custom, John Crippen purchased $13 worth of tickets and picked the numbers he's played for more than a decade.
Then, on Saturday night, 25-22-28-43-21 and Mega 12 finally hit the jackpot.
"I didn't quite believe it, but I had a friend of mine who assured me my numbers had been drawn," he said.
The couple says they will donate some of their winnings to Eisenhower Medical Center, the not-for-profit hospital in Rancho Mirage, and two churches.
While most people would retire, 81-year-old John Crippen says he plans to continue working as a product development manager.
His wife says they will also help their two children and four grandchildren.
The Crippens will receive their real check for $14.2 million in two weeks, minus the 25 percent in taxes they'll be paying to Uncle Sam.
