Kenneth Gordon Oldfield

Kenneth Gordon Oldfield, a Thanksgiving baby, was born to Barney and Violet Oldfield on November 26, 1936, in Buffalo, New York. Because Ken's father was in the aerospace industry with Bell Aircraft, they moved to Edwards Air Force Base in California when Ken was two so that his father could continue working on the first jet aircraft--the Bell XP59. His growing years were spent there where he developed an everlasting love and appreciation for the Mojave Desert. He also enjoyed being at the center of the experimental jet airplane testing that was accomplished there in the 40s and 50s. Ken's grade-school days were spent in a one-room schoolhouse and he became part of the first graduating class from Desert High School in 1955. At a reunion several years ago he was recognized for being the school's first football quarterback. He attended Valley Junior College in Burbank, California, and also Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia.

Ken and Viv discovered one another at Edwards when both worked for Republic Aircraft on the north base. After marrying shortly thereafter they moved to the San Fernando Valley in California where they spent their married life raising their precious daughter Connie while working for various aerospace companies. Connie eventually presented them with their greatest gifts--grandsons Scott (Jaime), Alexander, and Connor. Step-granddaughter, Amy, is also a blessing from son-in-law Curt. Two years ago, beautiful great-granddaughter Kendall, who was named after Ken, was born; he patiently waited for this "Ruffles" for many years.

Ken retired from Hughes Aircraft-Raytheon/General Motors in 1996 where he was a section head in the Facilities Department. He enjoyed his retirement immensely. He remained an avid gun collector all his life, but never engaged in hunting. He also loved motorcycle riding and still had a Yamaha cruiser in his garage at the time of his passing, as well as many unique firearms. He was a World War II enthusiast and prized his replicas of George Patton's pistol and sword. He greatly loved his country and believed our veterans should be supported and given the highest respect.

When Ken's prostate cancer metastasized to bone cancer in 2010, Ken and Viv got serious about where they were going to spend eternity. Scripture states that Jesus is the pathway to God and so they committed to become saved Christians in 2011. This occurrence became a great comfort and blessing to them during Ken's illness. They joined the Aliante Community Baptist Church in Las Vegas and were baptized in a full-body immersion ceremony that was a momentous event for both of them.

Ken is survived by those mentioned above and sisters Janet (Frank) and June, as well as sister-in-law Betty. The depth by which they will miss him for the remainder of their lives cannot be measured. In God's presence, may his spirit know everlasting joy.

Arrangements under the direction of Palm Northwest Mortuary, Las Vegas, NV.