More than nine months have passed since 53-year-old Anita Lou Hambleton went missing. On Saturday, just five minutes walk from her home, the remains of a woman—likely Hambleton’s—were found.

Hambleton was reported missing on June 11 of last year. In the days and weeks that followed, hundreds of people spread out to look for her; canines were brought it; and a helicopter even flew overhead.

On Saturday, a nearby property owner stumbled upon the remains of a body while looking for shed deer antlers.

The remains were found in the 69000 block of 56th Street, in Lawrence Township.

Police do not expect foul play, but the investigation is ongoing. An autopsy is expected -- along with positive identification – sometime this week.

Police say Hambleton suffered from bi-polar disorder and depression. But nothing explains why she simply disappeared that day in June and never came back.

"Usually Anita liked to go for walks, in behind the residence, and this was totally across the street, and down away from the area where she usually don't frequent or go," said Sgt. Scott Schmitt of the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department.

The area, a stretch of more than 40 acres where Mark Bouman often hunts. On Saturday, as he walked along the creek looking for shed deer antlers, he saw a piece of clothing.

He went for a closer look.

"I could barely make a phone call to 911 I was so shook up,” said Bouman.

“I had no idea. The thought that it could be a human body never crossed my mind."

The body, police say, is likely Anita Hambleton – hidden from search patrols and canines since June.

"The searchers last year were very close to her and just didn't see her because the brush is so thick down there," said Bouman.

For the community of Lawrence Township – including Hambleton’s church – Saturday’s find brings closure after months of what-ifs.

"She was a great children's worker, and just had a passion for kids," said Greg Panenfus, youth pastor at Hartford Federated Church.

“Anita had great faith in God and we know that she is in heaven with God now and that’s where the closure becomes easier,” said Panenfus.

In Van Buren County, the seasons changed. Summer faded, leaves dropped from trees. Snow fell.

And still, one painful question hung in the air.

"Always wondering, always wondering, we didn't know,” said Sgt. Schmitt.

On a spring day, along the bank of a winding creek, the answer.