The family of missing 56-year-old, Johnny Kootenay, from Morley, can now move forward and lay him to rest.

While, Johnny, was known to disappear for periods of time, Cochrane RCMP always remained hopeful he would just reappear. 

Cochrane, Sergeant Tom Kalis shares remains found near Kootenay's residence have led them to deliver unfortunate news. "We went back in April because human remains were found and we did a search then. We weren't able to search everything because there was a lot of snow...6 feet in some places, so we sent in the human remains for analysis."

Going back to the same location in May after the snow melted, Sgt. Kalis shares they were able to finally give the family closure. "The melting snow uncovered some other bones and clothing and so we reexamined that and with their DNA magic they were able to conclusively determine they belong to Mr. Kootenay."

Even though at this time they can not determine if foul play was involved or whether Johnny's death was accidental, Sgt. Kalis confirms the investigation is ongoing. "Cochrane's General Investigation Section is continuing to follow up on it right now. We have remains and a lot of factors involved, so there may be evidence out there that we have been yet to uncover."

While Sgt. Kalis did say they are not expecting a forensic analysis report to be attained, he did say you just never know. "With what we've got right now, no, but that doesn't mean it's not going to change down the road."

Our condolences go out to all of Johnny Calvin Kootenay's family and friends at this time. 

If you have any additional information that could help RCMP with their investigation call the Cochrane detachment at 403-851-8000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

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Where is Johnny Kootenay?