Elwood "Woody" Hahn September 18, 1938 – July 9, 2026

It is with profound respect and love that we announce the passing of Elwood "Woody" Hahn, 87, who passed away on July 9, 2026.

Few people in the world of sports can claim to have played professionally, co-owned a minor league baseball team, and served as commissioner of three different collegiate leagues. Woody accomplished all of this and more, leaving an undeniable impact on the sports landscape of Montana and beyond.

Born on September 18, 1938, in Savage, Montana, to Everett and Blanche Hahn, Woody spent his early years in Glendive, Montana, and Spokane, Washington, before his family settled in Billings. He graduated from Billings Senior High School in 1956, where he was a standout multi-sport athlete. His baseball skills earned him a spot at Washington State University (Go Cougs!). He spent his college summers playing semi-pro baseball, dedicating his time to the game he loved. In 1958, his team, the Drain Oregon Black Sox, won the National Championship. His talent caught the attention of Major League scouts, and in 1960, he signed with the St. Louis Cardinals, playing in the minor leagues for three seasons.

In 1960, Woody married his high school sweetheart, Sharon Jovanovich. Following his professional baseball career, they returned to Billings to start their family. He began working for School District #2 as a physical education teacher, later becoming the assistant athletic director under Jim Dutcher. In 1968, Woody took over as the General Manager of the Billings Mustangs, a position he held until 1978. He went on to earn his master's degree from Eastern Montana College (now MSUB) and was hired as their athletic director.

A true pioneer in NCAA Division II athletics, he helped organize and serve as the Commissioner of the western region's Continental Divide Conference. His longest tenure, however, was at the helm of the Pacific West Conference, where he served as Commissioner for 19 years.

Even in retirement, Woody stayed deeply connected to his sports roots. He continued his leadership with the Billings Mustangs, serving as President and co-owner. Through his perseverance, hard work, and close collaboration with the City of Billings, Dehler Park became a reality. Woody also found a deep passion for golf as a long-time member of the Yellowstone Country Club. His lifelong devotion to sports and community athletics earned him well-deserved inductions into the Billings American Legion Baseball Hall of Fame, the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame, the Montana State Golf Association Hall of Fame, and the MSUB Hall of Fame.

Our dad was a kind, quiet, gentle man who made friends wherever he went. He was an active member of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, where he served on the vestry and taught Sunday school. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who could always be found supporting his family in their pursuits. He deeply loved his family and truly lived the dream!

He is lovingly survived by his wife of 66 years, Sharon; his sons, Tim (Steph) and Mark (Kelly); his daughter, Tamara (Jon); his grandchildren, Sage, Ruby, Izzy, Te'a, Sophie, and niece, Colleen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Blanche Hahn, and his sister, Billie.

A celebration honoring Woody's incredible life will be held at a later date.