Barbara Ann Smialek (née Ostendorf), age 68, of Arlington Heights, Illinois, was born on January 30, 1957, in Paynesville, Minnesota, to the late Herman and Rita (née Roering) Ostendorf, and passed away on November 16, 2025.
Barb was the beloved wife of the late Paul Smialek; the loving sister of Kathleen (the late Robert) Talley, Sharon (the late Philip) Steffen, the late Harold (Charlene) Ostendorf, and Michele (Randy) Smith; and cherished aunt and great-aunt to many.
Barb loved to quilt, was an avid gardener, traveler, and devoted Cubs fan. She was dearly loved by her family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew her. Known for her boundless energy and joy, she had an infinite zest for life and was the orchestrator of countless celebrations and all things fun.
A celebration of life (visitation) will be held on Sunday, November 23, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Lauterburg & Oehler Funeral Home, 2000 E. Northwest Highway, Arlington Heights, IL.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
