World-renowned TikTok star and World War II veteran, Jake Larson—affectionately known as “Papa Jake”—has passed away at the age of 102. His granddaughter, McKaela Larson, shared the heartbreaking news on a joint Instagram account on July 20, revealing that he died peacefully on July 17, surrounded by family.
“It’s with a heavy heart that I have to make this announcement. Our beloved Papa Jake has passed away on July 17th. Please know, he went peacefully and was even cracking jokes until the very end,” McKaela wrote, touching the hearts of his 1.2 million TikTok followers.
Papa Jake rose to fame on TikTok through a series of engaging videos that highlighted his remarkable life experiences. His granddaughter began sharing his stories in June 2020, showcasing his role in planning the D-Day invasion in 1944 and his status as one of the last surviving soldiers who landed on Omaha Beach during the Normandy invasion, as reported by The New York Times.
In her emotional tribute, McKaela included two cherished photos of herself with Jake, along with a collage depicting some of his happiest moments, such as visits to Disneyland and interactions with fans. She requested privacy for the family as they navigate this profound loss, emphasizing her gratitude for the love and support they received from the online community. “I am so thankful to have shared my Papa Jake with you all. You meant the world to him. When the time is right, I will continue to share Papa Jake’s stories and keep his memory alive. We appreciate all the kind words and posts. As Papa would say, love you all the mostest. ❤️”
Jake Larson was born on December 20, 1922, in Hope, Minneapolis. He chronicled his extraordinary life in his 2021 memoir, “The Luckiest Man in the World: Stories from the Life of Papa Jake.” His TikTok account featured not only historical anecdotes but also light-hearted moments, such as sharing birthday greetings from celebrities like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning. In one memorable video, he humorously commented on the good looks of Chris Pratt while holding a signed photo from the actor.
Jake’s posts resonated with audiences far beyond the platform, as he became a beloved figure known for his humor, charm, and wisdom. He often expressed his admiration for public figures, including a heartfelt message about former President Jimmy Carter shortly before Carter’s passing in December 2024 at the age of 100.
The legacy of “Papa Jake” Larson will undoubtedly live on through the stories he shared and the connections he made with fans around the world. His unique blend of history, humor, and heartfelt interactions made him a standout personality on social media, leaving a lasting impact on those who followed his journey.
As fans and fellow veterans mourn the loss of this remarkable man, they celebrate a life well-lived—one filled with courage, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Jake Larson’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of sharing our experiences with others, bridging the gap between generations.