I noticed his quiet acceptance
When someone claimed there were hardly any trees planted
At the time he retired as manager

I noticed his quiet smile
When I was still in bed reading when he returned
From walking the grounds with Larry

I noticed his quiet reading
When I made myself breakfast and got ready
As he sat on the sofa with a western and a glass of milk

I noticed his quiet pleasure
When we walked the woodland paths
After we drove to the arboretum

And I heard his quiet spirit
Echoed In his beloved woods