Worked all his life and saved his money. Sounds like a plan to me.
It worked for me. My story is identical to the original poster’s, except I did go to college — thanks to scholarships and a heavy work-study schedule. Like him, I worked steadily and, by living well within my modest means, I was able to save quite a bit. Unlike 99% of my colleagues, I had my paychecks auto-deposited to my savings account rather than my checking account. i would transfer just enough to checking to cover bills — utilities and rent — and my one credit card was paid in full each month. I lived in a major metro area and walked and used public transit — no car and the related expenses. I had no plan or financial strategy, I never balanced my checkbook. When my savings account grew large, I’d put chunks into a mutual fund. This system worked like a charm. I was able to retire early (mid-50s) and pay cash for my forever home — no mortgage — and a used car. Depending on how the stock market does, my mutual fund statements reveal I’m often a millionaire. It can be done.