Keith Francis Viator

Published 12:00 am Saturday, December 16, 2023

A memorial Mass will be conducted for Keith Francis Viator, 63, at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church with Fr. Matthew Hebert officiating. Inurnment will follow at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Monday, December 18, 2023. A Rosary will be prayed at 5:30 p.m. on Monday evening in the funeral home led by Fr. Ed Degeyter. The family will receive family and friends from 9 a.m. until the start of the Mass on Tuesday morning at church.

Mr. Keith Viator, a man of boundless curiosity and multifaceted talents, passed away on Saturday, November 18, 2023, leaving behind a legacy woven with a passion for the outdoors and a deep appreciation for the arts. Keith’s love for nature was evident in his enthusiasm for fishing, hunting and camping, activities that allowed him to forge a connection with the world around him. In addition to his outdoor pursuits, Keith found solace in the realm of creativity, teaching himself to play the guitar and channeling his artistic inclinations into painting. As a self-taught painter he crafted numerous works of art that adorned the walls of his family’s home, each canvas a testament to his innate talent and the love he held for those closest to him.

Beyond his outdoor adventures and artistic endeavors, Keith was known for his insatiable curiosity about how things worked, showcasing a keen intellect and a hands-on approach to understanding the mechanics of the world. His laughter, as infectious as his inquisitive spirit, had the remarkable ability to illuminate any room, creating an atmosphere of joy wherever he went. Keith proudly served as a Navy veteran for six years, adding a chapter of discipline and commitment to his life’s narrative. However, amidst his diverse interests, it was family that held the highest place in Keith’s heart. His unwavering love for his family, coupled with his zest for life, leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to share in his journey. As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, let us celebrate the rich tapestry of his life, marked by laughter, love and a relentless pursuit of understanding and appreciation for the world around him.

He is survived by his wife Susan “Sue” Janes Viator of Coteau; two sons, Brandon M. Viator and wife Melissa of Anchorage, Alaska, Justin X. Viator and wife Erin of Dayton, Ohio; grandchildren Avery, Beau, Gabriella and Scarlett Viator; siblings Brent Viator of Franklin, Kenneth Viator and wife Jenny of Coteau, Sherry Viator and companion Sandi of Carencro, Ellen McDonald and husband Brent of New Iberia, Wayne Viator of Coteau; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents Presley and Merline Menard Viator; and sister Patti Gonzales.

Honorary pallbearers will be Brandon, Justin, Avery, Beau, Gabriella and Scarlett Viator.

The family is thankful for the skilled and compassionate care provided by the doctors, which significantly contributed to extending Keith’s life by an additional five years, for which they are profoundly grateful. The family would also like to thank Hospice of Acadiana for the care and compassion they provided.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Keith’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, https://www.stjude.org/ or the American Cancer Society, https://donate.cancer.org/.

Family and friends may sign the guest register book and/or send condolences at www.davidfuneralhome.org.

David Funeral Home of New Iberia, 1101 Trotter St., 337-369-6336, is in charge of the arrangements.