TikTok Mourns Beloved WWII Veteran at 102

From the battlefields of Normandy to a TikTok legend, the incredible journey of Jake “Papa Jake” Larson has ended at 102, leaving a legacy of bravery, storytelling, and a powerful reminder of our nation’s greatest generation.

At a Glance

  • Jake “Papa Jake” Larson, a D-Day veteran and viral TikTok star, passed away at 102.
  • Larson’s storytelling on TikTok brought his WWII experiences to over 1.2 million followers.
  • Tributes pour in from across the globe, honoring his life and legacy.
  • Papa Jake’s digital presence continues to educate and inspire future generations.

A Life of Service and Sacrifice

Jake “Papa Jake” Larson was born in 1922 in Owatonna, Minnesota. At just 15, he lied about his age to join the National Guard, driven by a sense of duty and adventure. By 1942, as the world plunged into chaos, he was deployed overseas, playing a crucial role in Operation Overlord— the Allied invasion of Normandy. On D-Day, June 6, 1944, Larson and his fellow soldiers stormed Omaha Beach under relentless German fire. Escaping unharmed, he later fought in the Battle of the Bulge, helping to turn the tide against Nazi Germany. After the war, Larson settled in California, building a family with his wife, Lola.

In his later years, Larson’s commitment to sharing his wartime experiences grew. He returned to Normandy for D-Day commemorations, becoming a respected figure in WWII remembrance. His stories, filled with courage and humility, connected him to a new generation through the digital lens of TikTok.

From Veteran to Viral Sensation

In 2020, Larson’s granddaughter launched the TikTok account “storytimewithpapajake,” quickly propelling him to fame with over 1.2 million followers. His heartfelt recollections captivated a worldwide audience, turning a war hero into a beloved social media influencer. Amidst a climate where history often feels distant, Larson’s firsthand accounts provided a bridge between past and present, making history relatable and real.

Larson’s digital presence was not just about recounting tales of war but also spreading messages of peace and unity. His simple yet profound motto, “make peace not war,” resonated with millions, offering a timely reminder of the virtues of diplomacy and the horrors of conflict.

Watch a report: Tik-Tok Star and D-DAY War Veteran ‘Papa Jake’ Dies at 102

A Legacy That Lives On

Jake Larson’s passing on July 17, 2025, was met with a wave of tributes from across the globe, including heartfelt messages from Normandy towns, WWII museums, and public figures like the Zac Brown Band and retired Navy officer Jocko Willink. His granddaughter, McKaela, announced his death on social media, capturing the collective grief and gratitude of his audience. “Our beloved Papa Jake has passed away at 102 years young,” she wrote, echoing his warmth and love for his followers.

Larson’s TikTok account remains a treasure trove of wisdom and history, continuing to educate and inspire. His autobiography, “The Luckiest Man in the World: Stories from the Life of Papa Jake,” published in 2021, serves as a lasting testament to his life and legacy. It is clear that his impact will be felt for generations to come.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR