Tributes Flow for TikTok Star and WWII Veteran 'Papa' Jake Larson at 102

Jake Larson, age 102, known as 'Papa Jake,' has died, sparking an outpouring of tributes. A distinguished World War II veteran who landed on the beaches of Normandy during D-Day, Larson later gained fame on TikTok for his storytelling about wartime memories and honoring his fellow soldiers.

In a heartfelt post on TikTok, his granddaughter McKaela Larson announced his passing on July 17, noting he had remained jovial even in his final moments. Larson was proud to have touched the lives of over 1.2 million followers and recently co-won an Emmy Award for an interview commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day with renowned journalist Christiane Amanpour.

In his youth, Larson bravely served at the Battle of the Bulge, and he frequently participated in commemorative events at Normandy. His legacy blends military valor with social media storytelling, a unique combination that deeply resonated with many. McKaela promised to keep his memory alive by sharing more stories in the future, resonating with the sentiments of many who admired ‘Papa Jake.’

“Thank you for letting me share my Papa Jake with you,” she expressed to his followers, while also asking for family privacy during this time of grief. As the world bids farewell to a hero, Larson’s lasting impact will endure through the stories he shared and the lives he inspired.