Meet Keith Lilek

Listen to Keith's Story

Lifetime Mentee. Award-winning Catholic Author, Speaker, Poet, & Songwriter. Humorist. Entrepreneur. Philanthropist. Husband, Dad & Papa.

Lifetime Mentee –  Keith believes there is great value in being a good listener (although it’s been a struggle) and learning from others - in one's professional, personal, and spiritual life. But the ultimate Mentor is God. He credits much of his success to this as a husband, Dad, devout catholic, and business owner in embracing this philosophy. He refers to himself as a "Lifetime Mentee." He now wants to share

through his books, speaking engagements, and workshop ministry.

Keith: "I truly believe that my success in business, including selling my multi-million-dollar company and retiring at the age of 58, would not have been possible if I hadn't been open

to learning from others who were more knowledgeable. And the best part is, I'm still learning! The human brain is an incredible tool; acquiring new knowledge can transform your life. Becoming a "Lifetime Mentee" has been the secret ingredient to my success. Whenever I wanted to excel in running a successful business, I sought guidance from those already doing it. Similarly, when I aimed to deepen my Catholic faith, I sought the wisdom of the most devout Catholic I knew, someone who lived a virtuous life, and I eagerly absorbed their teachings. I never hesitated to ask for help from those who had achieved greater success in the areas I was currently working on. In any endeavor, it's crucial to surround yourself with people who excel in that field, and by seeking their guidance, their blessings will undoubtedly become your own."

Devout Catholic  – As Iron Sharpens Iron, Keith learned early in his career that being a part of a men's group at his parish could keep the spark alive. His involvement led to many church-related activities, culminating in his lifelong support of vocations to the priesthood and religious life. His dedication and deep love for Our Blessed Mother and Her Rosary have blessed his personal and business lives. 

Keith: "My prayer life grew as my devotion to praying a daily Rosary grew. My faith is kept strong by having the Divine Mercy Image of Jesus over my shoulder watching over me all these years.”

Author, Speaker, Poet, & Songwriter – Keith is spending his retirement years sharing all he has learned through his writing, speaking, poetry, and songs. Every storyteller knows the power of storytelling. Keith has an unusual method of storytelling in sonnet and song-style poetry to share his highly relatable tales. His commitment to praying the rosary led to the inspiring lessons written in the Mentored from Above Series of six books and two song albums.

Literary Recognition – Keith has been recognized with a 2024 BIBA Award (Best Independent Book Award) for Christian Inspiration with his book, The Sonnets of Laina's Life.

Humorist –As a member of two national “Three Stooges” Fan Clubs and the 1998 national trivia contest winner, Keith Lilek could undoubtedly be considered a premier authority on one of the most popular comedy teams of film and television. Keith attributes the genesis of his collection to the invention of the VCR. It wasn’t until he won a VCR in a 1983 sales contest that he fulfilled his lifelong dream of taping every episode of “The Three Stooges.” Keith now collects all kinds of memorabilia about his heroes of comedy.

Entrepreneur – Keith owned and developed a multimillion-dollar software company while successfully living out his Catholic faith by dedicating the business to the Divine Mercy Jesus, who watched over his daily actions. Employees would circle up at the start of most days and pray, bringing people of all faiths together for their common good.

Keith: “Praying with my employees daily was the single most powerful way to motivate and start our day putting it in the hands of God….”

Philanthropist – Keith dedicates much of his time and resources to helping those in need. He has designed his complete book, audio, and song collection to support non-profit organizations and raise funds without keeping any of the profits for himself. His sole intention is to spread the joy and blessings of his mentoring journey, emphasizing how being a lifelong mentee can unlock the key to a joyful and fulfilling existence.

Husband, Dad & Papa  – Married 40 years to his lovely wife Terri, with four adult kids who still seek his advice and five grandkids who call him Papa! Many of Keith's stories originate from his life as a father, husband, and grandfather.

Keith: "As a husband, dad, and Papa, I've gained invaluable knowledge and experience. My goal through writing is to leave a lasting legacy of the lessons I've learned to be passed down to future generations. I also want to share how I've applied these lessons, which are God inspired, and how my mentors have greatly impacted my life."

Interesting Other Tidbits about Keith:

• Keith’s Life Bible Verse: Mathew 5:14-16

You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.

• Keith’s Favorite Saint: St. Lawrence, Patron Saint of Comedians

A sense of humor is a miracle of great grace. Rome persecuted St. Lawrence and then burned him alive over a gridiron. As he was burning, he declared he was done on one side, “You can turn me over.” He then prayed for the conversion of Rome and said, "It is cooked enough now," then died a martyr's death. St. Lawrence, pray for us.

• Favorite Book:

Pierced by a Sword   by Bud MacFarlane Jr

A troubled young securities broker meets a stunningly beautiful young Catholic woman, away from the faith since childhood, alone and pregnant in the heartless city of Chicago. Meet Fr. Chet, A fast-talking young priest from New Jersey with a penchant for getting into trouble, and Lee, a drug dealer living in the fast lane…Will he keep his appointment with Our Lady? Then there’s Pope Patrick, A no-nonsense Irish Pope who drives his car and travels in disguise, unaware that there is a bounty on his head...and then the mother of God appears…what life-changing message could they receive?

• Places Traveled to:

Rome, Holy Land (Learn about our Pilgrimage)

• People I've met:

Attended the last Ash Wednesday service given by St. Pope John Paul II just weeks before he passed away. I sat in the general audience ROW One. SEAT One!