Russian Bells

For my grandfather, August Heitman — his name engraved on one of the bells that rings out from the Kodiak Russian Orthodox Church, echoing across generations.

I hear Russian bells tonight
So faint and yet so clear
Though you are now so far away
The bells have brought you near

Back to this little seaside town
And boats ‘neath harbor lights
Your memory can still be found
Even on the darkest nights

A walk along the St. Paul docks
My heart holds still again
So great a man can’t be forgot
So great a love won’t end

And if I live one hundred years
And if my heart still tells
I shall always be remembering you
When I hear Russian Bells