Remains found in Woolwich Township last year have been identified as those of 50-year-old James Philip Zimmerlee Gabriel.

The remains were reportedly found spread over a large, swampy area in a field that borders on Victoria Street North and Greenhouse Road.

It's unclear when or how the remains came to be in that location.

Waterloo Regional police say Gabriel frequented Waterloo Region and was known to stay in shelters in the downtown area.

His last contact with his family was in the summer of 2009, and police say he is believed to have spent most of his last years homeless.

Gabriel is described as 5,10", 168 lbs, with gray hair and brown eyes. Analysis of the remains show he was wearing blue jeans and thick, red suspenders under a white t-shirt at the time of his death.

He was also wearing size 14, brown, lace-up deck shoes made by the Penman's company. A beige-coloured jacket with the label Dekker London was also found in the area.

Police are asking anyone who may have information on Gabriel's last known location and activities to contact them at 519-653-7700 Ext. 8309 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.