The remains of a Second World War soldier found near a river in the Netherlands have been identified as those of Pte. Albert Laubenstein from Saskatoon, the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces said Saturday.

"We will never forget the courage and sacrifice of our Canadian war heroes. In remembering Private Laubenstein, we reflect upon the freedom he fought to preserve and provide a sense of closure to his family," Lt.-Gen. Marquis Hainse, Canadian Army commander, said in a statement.

In June 2014, a metal detector hobbyist discovered the Laubenstein's remains on the southern bank of the river Maas near Sprang-Capelle, Netherlands.

Laubenstein was born on March 28, 1914, and joined the Canadian Army in 1940. He served with the 102nd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Artillery as well as the 4th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment.

He was killed during the Battle of Kapelsche Veer on Jan. 26, 1945, and his body was interred in a battlefield grave that could not be relocated at the end of the war.

"After all these years, it is with great honour that we are finally able to lay Private Laubenstein to rest with the honour and dignity he so greatly deserves," Defence Minister Jason Kenney said. "His courage, dedication, and the ultimate sacrifice he made for his country will never be forgotten."