Evan was always known as E.R. Goodfellow and volunteered early in the Civil War. He joined the Eagle Guards; which became the 4th Regiment, PA, and served in Co. H. Later he served as 2nd Sergeant in the 45th PA. Became 2nd Lt. of Co D on 15 August, 1861 and was killed on the 2nd day of the Battle of the Wilderness 6 May, 1864. At the end of the fighting that day, General Grant went to his tent and cried like a baby. 17,000 Union troops were lost in the first two days and nothing much had been accomplished.

His younger brother, Andrew J. Goodfellow also served and was wounded at Cold Harbor. He recovered and after the war was married and had a family. His first son was named E.R. Goodfellow