Carmel Olive Lichtblau (nee Smyth), known always as Olive, of Westmont Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026 at the age of 86. Olive was born on July 11, 1940 in Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland, to the late Patrick Smyth of Claremorris and Mary Smyth of Brackloon South, Ballyhaunis.

Olive was the beloved wife of the late Wolfgang Ewald Lichtblau. They were married in 1971, and traveled the world together for 42 years. Olive was a loving mother to Hagen Lichtblau and Christa (Jeremy) Stanulis, and the proud Grannie of Desmond and Delia Stanulis.

Cherished sister of Chris Smyth, Eva Scanlon, Mary Branagan, Nora McHale, John Noel Smyth and the late PJ Smyth.

Olive was an eternal optimist, and there was no problem that couldn’t be improved with a hot cup of tea. She loved exploring new places and enjoyed immersing herself in the local culture, foods, and arts. She was especially drawn to those who needed kindness and a helping hand wherever she lived. Her greatest joy was gathering people together with good food and warm hospitality. Her door was always open and there was always room for one more seat at the table. Olive’s legacy of tenacity, humor, kindness and service will be carried forward by those who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

A visitation will be held on August 29, 2026 from 9:00am to 10:30am, directly preceding the Funeral Mass at 10:30am at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Downers Grove. A private burial will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her honor may be made to the Wellness House in Hinsdale, IL.