Russell Aaron Alger Oldfield, Jr.

Russ was born March 3, 1928 in Rhinelander, WI to the late Russell Oldfield and Ethel Carter Oldfield. He grew up in Eagle River, WI and graduated from Western Military Academy in Alton, IL in 1946. Russ then graduated with a B.S. degree in chemistry from Northwestern University in 1950. He went to work for Victor Chemical Company in Chicago and was transferred to Nashville in 1952. He went on to found several laboratories that specialized in medical, veterinary and environmental testing.

Russ was successful in business and athletics, but more crucially he was a man who enjoyed life and gave his all that others might experience the same. He grew up amidst the forests and lakes of northern Wisconsin and he spent much of his time during retirement at his camp in Delta, WI. From early on, he was an avid hunter and fisherman and he often had a hunting dog at his side. Russ combined the traits of a self reliant outdoorsman with those of a generous and loving family man. As one of his grandsons said, “He was a man’s man, a loving husband, a proud ‘girl dad’, a fierce competitor, a brilliant scientist, and a tender grandfather.” He also had an eye and ear for life's humorous side and he relished opportunities to tell stories that captured the funny moments that lift spirits and add perspective. Church played an important part in Russ’s life and he put his faith into practice by helping others to achieve goals that they might not have achieved otherwise. He thoroughly enjoyed the company of good friends and it was his ability to see the best in others while expecting the best from himself that set him apart.

Russ is survived by his wife of 66 years, Jean Oldfield; daughters, Libby Broadhurst(David), Carolyn Hanlon(Tom), Anne Haynes-Andis(Chad); grandchildren, Rob Broadhurst, Jean Schoeneweis(Brandon), Annie Hanlon, John Hanlon(Amanda), Elizabeth Hanlon, Russell Haynes, Will Haynes(Ivy), Aaron Haynes(Madeleine); step grandchild Mamie Broadhurst(Richard Williams); great-grandchildren Patrick Ford, Owen Ford, and Fiona Haynes; step great-grandchild Nora Broadhurst Williams along with several nephews and a niece. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Carter Lee Oldfield and son-in-law, Bruce Haynes

Due to current limitations on gatherings a memorial service celebrating Russ’s life will be held at a later date. The family extends deep gratitude and love to his family doctor and friend, Craig Sussman and his recent caregivers.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church, 3900 West End Ave., 37205; Alive Hospice, 1718 Patterson St., 37203; Friends of Warner Parks, 50 Vaughn Road, 37221; or a charity of your choice.