The human remains found on Manitoulin Island Sept. 20 have been identified as those of Alfons Jauernig, who had Alzheimer’s disease and who had been missing since May 27, 2010, according to the Ontario Provincial Police.

Manitoulin OPP officers were called to a scene where a hunter had found human skeletal remains on property adjacent to Wosley Bay in Gordon Township just west of Gore Bay. There is no foul play suspected in the discovery of these remains and OPP advise there is no concern for public safety with this investigation.

Police learned that on May 27, 2010, Jauernig, 78, had wandered away from his home near Stone Lake at the west end of Manitoulin Island.

A post-mortem was conducted Sept. 25 in Sudbury, where a positive identification was made, according to OPP.

Jauernig was last seen on a trail adjacent to the Jauernig summer residence. He was reported missing shortly before 9 p.m. by his wife.

An extensive search was initiated at that time with Manitoulin OPP officers, RCC Trenton and the North Shore Search and Rescue. During that time, OPP specialty units like the helicopter, canine team, marine operators and the underwater search and recovery unit also assisted in this search.

Police were unable to locate Jauernig.

After an extensive search lasting many weeks, the OPP suspended the search until further information or leads came forth as to Jauernig's possible whereabouts. Over the past two years, OPP had conducted periodic searches.

The investigation is now complete, said the OPP.