Nicknamed "Barney". Son of Ellis E. and Ada Catherine Rothrock Oldfield. Had three sisters (including Edith Maria Oldfield Dixon) and uncle M.G. Oldfield. Moved to Colorado Springs with family in 1912. Worked at El Paso County treasurer's office for 2 years and as bookkeeper at Hub Clothing Company for a year. Moved to Detroit in 1915 where he worked at a construction company, then moved to Des Moines in 1916. Enlisted at Des Moines on July 22, 1918. Drowned in Arkansas River. Lieutenant of son's company wrote "During the brief period of his service in this company he had demonstrated a straightforwardness, cheerfulness and willingness to perform more than his share of the duties assigned to him and his companions, which had won for him the love, admiration and respect of the entire company, both officers and men." Qualified for entry into officers training camp at Camp Zachary Taylor.