So I have at least discovered how to avoid this problem ...
Create world state for specific character only. Do NOT load the world state with a default character just to 'test stuff out'.
Create character. Play the game. Make sure a "World State Created by Inquisition Savedgame" has been created.
Delete original editable world state.
I believe I first utilized this world state with a default Cadash to try some stuff out and see how my character looked in game. This has led to The Keep refusing to acknowledge my custom Cadash. Pretty lame since Irenia is definitely custom, and has completed Tresspasser, yet The Keep does NOT list her as a custom hero.
Oh well, live and learn. I have 8 other heroes that I do not have this issue with.