Birth date: Mar 10, 1943 Death date: Mar 29, 2013
Otho Robert Fields was born March 10th, 1943 in Modesto, California. He was the only surviving child of Mary Louise Williams-Fields and Otho Nield Fields. Otho attended college at California State University Stanislaus and majored Read Obituary
My dad, Gil Middlebrooks has talked about Otho so much over the years. I feel like I know him. he was just talking about him today so I wanted to look him up. And I found this beautiful tribute. I’m sorry for everyone’s loss but I wanted you to know that his childhood friend from Modesto, who still holds him in high regard that even his grandchildren know who Otho is.
Although I never met Warrant Officer Fields myself, I entered the Army band career field in 1975 and retired 30 years later. Over the years I recall hearing his name mentioned several times in a highly favorable manner. Rest in peace, Chief, and thank you for your contributions to our nation.
I'll never forget Mr Fields he was my band master at ft Hood Texas I was 17 years old straight out of high school , he put in the armyband as a guitarist , he gave me time to practice to learn my chords and scales , I remember my first stage band show I mastered it , Mr. Fields and General Patton awarded me the guitar MOS I did 9 years in the armyband thanks to my good friend Mr Fields , he was truly my friend
I was extremely honored to have Mr. Fields as my bandmaster while stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, in the 2nd Armored Division "Hell on Wheels" band (75-78). I owe so much to this fine man. He took me under his wing and directed me out front of the big band, knees knocking, to do my best impression of Glen Miller, Tommy Dorsey and the rest of the big band era trombonists.
He demanded excellence and truthfully, we did our best because we feared his wrath. Looking back, I realize that he brought out the very best in all of us.
Had it not been for Mr. Fields, I would have never come out of my shell. He encouraged me to explore my future as a trombonist and at the end of short career, encouraged my decision to hang up the axe and return to civilian life.
Otho Robert Fields, one of the best of men in my life who encouraged me, nurtured me and was a major influence in my life.
You are missed by many.
Ken Dees
Trombonist
U.S. Army Hell on Wheels Band (75-78)
Hello, Just got the news about Mr. Fields. He was one of the best leaders and Army Band master that I served under. When he heard that I was about to sign in at Ft Riley, he sent some troops over to get me. The band was preparing for the Army birthday celebration and the song, Stars and Stripes Forever was one of the songs because he was told that a flute/piccolo player was heading there. Yes, I did not have time to even unpack before I began rehearsing with the band. Mr. Fields and the band made me feel so welcomed. RIP Mr. Fields, your legacy lives on… By the way…he was the only person that I knew that could drink hot coffee in 100 degree weather….lol.
I wholeheartedly concur with Mr. Butler, as I served with Mr. Fields at Ft. Riley as well. He was as fine a a musician, leader, and gentleman as I ever had in my army career. My most sincere wishes to his family and friends. He is truly missed. Terence J. (Terry) Miles Meriden, Iowa
Otho Fields, or "Mr. Fields" as I knew him, was an outstanding Army Bandmaster. I served with him in the early 1980's at Ft. Riley Kansas. He was an outstanding conductor and rehearsal director, with his own special flair and style. He always made sure his troops were taken care of and he led by example. Please know that I cherish the memories of my short time with him in the military and wish his family and friends all the best. SP5 Robert D. Butler 1st Infantry Division band, Ft. Riley Kansas p.s. I'm the tall baritone player directly behind him in the photo.
