PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — The remains of a soldier who died while serving in World War II have returned to New England.

U.S. Army Sgt. Hagop Jack Zarifian died on April 6, 1945, in Germany after he was hit by a Nebelwerfer rocket, according to his obituary. The 19-year-old’s body was unable to be recovered “due to intense fighting against German forces.”

Zarifian’s remains were found buried alongside his rifle and uniform by German construction workers back in October 2023.

“Thank goodness for the kindness of the German people for burying him intact and with dignity,” Zarifian’s obituary reads.

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency identified Zarifian’s remains through DNA testing back in May.

The discovery finally brought closure to his two surviving sisters, who spent decades trying to locate their missing brother.

“It’s still unbelievable that they found him after all this time,” his nephew Gary Chapkounin said. “It opened up old wounds for my mom … but I’m happy she got closure.”

Though Zarifian was born and raised in Connecticut, he was brought to Rhode Island so he could be buried closer to his surviving relatives. His remains arrived at the Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport Monday afternoon.

Zarifian received a military escort to the Pontarelli-Marino Funeral Home in Providence, where there was a brief ceremony to honor his ultimate sacrifice.

His funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 23, at 11 a.m. with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Zarifian will then be buried with military honors at the North Burial Ground in Providence.