Dr. Armin Oldsen was born the son of a pastor in Addison, Illinois. He graduated from Concordia College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he was voted best all-around athlete, in 1930. After graduation from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, he served as assistant pastor of St. Paul's in Lakewood, Ohio. Later he moved to Valparaiso, Indiana, where he was pastor of Immanuel, taught religion and sociology at Valparaiso University, and counseled university students.

Oldsen was appointed as Lutheran Hour speaker in 1951. Although he resigned just two years later for health reasons, Oldsen preached the Gospel message with boldness and clarity during his brief tenure.