2025 Distinguished Alumni

Mr. Joe Gerhart- Class of 1984

Mr. Ricky Luz - Class of 1998

Mr. Randall Underwood - Class of 1975

Homecoming 2025

September 26th vs. Abilene TLCA

Joe Gerhart

Joe Gerhart was born on June 26, 1966, in Winters, Texas, to Milton and Naomi Gerhart. The youngest of three boys, Joe grew up alongside his older brothers, Terry and Toby, in a household rooted in hard work, community service, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Joe’s passion for aviation began early. By 17, he had earned his private pilot’s license—an impressive feat for a high school student. That same year, he graduated from Winters High School (Class of 1984), and further achieved both his commercial pilot’s license and flight instructor certification. He launched his aviation career at Coleman Airport, working as a flight instructor and aircraft mechanic.

In 1988, when his parents decided to sell the family business, Joe stepped up to continue the legacy, purchasing Milton’s Hardware & Auto Supply, Inc. Under his leadership, the business flourished over the next four decades, evolving into a full-service operation offering hardware, auto parts, and rental equipment. In 2011, Joe and his wife Theresa expanded their contributions to the community by opening The Attic Boutique.

A lifelong member of St. John Lutheran Church, Joe has served in numerous roles, including Church Council President. In 1993, he married Theresa West, and together they raised three sons—Jordan, Christopher, and Daniel—who have each built successful lives rooted in the values their parents instilled. That same year, the couple also purchased Gerhart Cleaners, and Joe began his two-year term as Mayor of Winters.

Over the years, Joe has continued to serve his hometown with distinction. He has held multiple terms with the Winters Chamber of Commerce, was a founding member of the Winters Industrial Board, and served eight years on the City Council. He is also a former member of the Lions Club, reflecting a lifelong commitment to civic involvement.

Joe’s dedication to Winters is especially evident in his support of local youth and the Winters Independent School District. A proud father of three former Blizzard athletes, he volunteered as a youth baseball coach, Cub Scout leader, and active member of the Winters Booster Club. For over a decade, Joe also served as a volunteer school photographer, capturing treasured moments at games, performances, and school events.

Today, Joe is affectionately known as “Grandpa Joe” to his grandchildren, Myles, Maddie and Rylee, whose activities and achievements he supports with boundless pride. In his free time, he enjoys RVing, kayaking, hiking, driving Jeep trails, and most of all, spending quality time with his family.

For his lifetime of dedication, leadership, and love for his community, Joe Gerhart exemplifies the spirit of Winters High School.

Ricky Luz

Technical Manager | Senior Cybersecurity Engineer Carnegie Mellon University Software Engineering Institute San Antonio, TX

Ricky is currently a technical manager at Carnegie Mellon University's Software Engineering Institute. He is a retired Marine Corps Cyberspace Officer with significant achievements in helping to establish the Marine Corps Cyberspace Command and participating in multiple deployments supporting military operations in the Middle East and Pacific theaters. Ricky’s current responsibilities include supporting research and development for the U.S. government and providing advanced cyber solutions to the Department of Defense and international partners and allies. He holds a master’s degree in cybersecurity management and policy development from the University of Maryland, Upsilon Pi Epsilon (UPI) Honor Society, as well as certifications from Harvard University in Entrepreneurship and Innovation and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Artificial Intelligence: Implications for Business Strategy. Ricky is a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success and takes part in the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association International Leadership and Mentorship Program. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family, running, and traveling. He has a profound appreciation for grit, teamwork, and determination, and that started by being a WINTERS BLIZZARD!

Randall Underwood

Underwood Custom Homes is a custom homebuilder serving the greater Park Cities, Preston Hollow, Dallas and Fort Worth area. Originally from a small ranching community in West Texas, Randall Underwood developed a deep knowledge of architecture, design and construction rooted in a sense of natural order, appropriate scale and regional correctness and continued through a portfolio of homes that reflect the sophistication of his clients.

After receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in Architecture at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Randall embarked on his lifelong career in high-end residential construction. For over thirty years, Underwood Custom Homes, LLC has been building, renovating, and expanding upon remarkable homes in the North Texas surrounding area.

From cottages to estates, from Georgian to contemporary architecture, Underwood has emerged as a premier home builder in North Texas, growing exclusively through client referrals. Randall's engaging, honest and respectful way of interacting with clients, consultants and sub-contractors fosters a partnership between homeowner, architect and builder.

True to his Texas roots, Randall's word is his bond.

“Intricate details when properly executed produce a thing of lasting beauty.” 

- Randall Underwood