Keith (Kieto) A. Ballentine passed away suddenly June 5, 2024. Born February 17, 1950 to the late Bruce Ballentine and Nina (nee Licare) Ballentine.
Memorial Mass: Thursday, June 13, 2024 at St. Ambrose Catholic Church 5130 Wilson Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110 at 10:00 a.m.
ARRANGEMENTS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF MICHEL FUNERAL HOME
I miss our Saturday mass together sharing your beautiful music. I am sure your mom and brother were happy to welcome you home. Rest in God’s love.
I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Keith, a truly remarkable man whose contributions to church music ministry have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many in South City St. Louis. Keith’s deep, booming baritone voice, that ‘shook’ the rafters, had a unique way of stirring the soul, especially during his powerful rendition of the military anthems on Veterans Day. His passion and bravado drew the eyes of numerous individuals, often moving them to tears.
Keith’s talent as a great Christian music author and his dedication to the music ministry in various Catholic parishes is something we will all miss profoundly. His legacy is beautifully captured in the words, “Love is immortality. Love is one. Love is the whole. Love is an endless sea that you fall into. And once you fall into it, you can’t fall out. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” Indeed, Keith may be gone from our sight, but he will never be absent from our hearts.
As we grieve this tremendous loss, may the cherished memories of Keith and the love of family surround us and give us strength in the days ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with the St. Mary Magdalen Community, hoping to assuage the grief that touches us all. We must remember that grief never ends; it changes. It is a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith. It is the price of love. May the Memory of our Brother Keith be eternal as his spirit continues to inspire and uplift us.
Keith, you helped to focus my faith at St. Roch church for many years. I’ll miss your voice, your humor, and the occasional closing strains of the rock tune Layla. Eternal rest grant unto you oh Lord, and my the perpetual light shine on you forever.
Keith, you helped to focus my faith at St. Roch church for many years. I’ll miss your voice, your humor, and the occasional closing strains of the rock tune Layla. Eternal rest grant unto you oh Lord, and may the perpetual light shine on you forever.
What a blessing it was to worship together in the music ministry at St Roch so many years ago. Your humor, honesty and humility brought joy to my life. Thank you, dear Keith, for your faithful service.
RIP my friend. I will never forget the beautiful music you played at our daughter’s wedding! Truly one of a kind you were.
Hill tours will be missing a bit of our Italian culture without your song and music.
Linda Barni Hausman