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| Image: Instagram |
Jake Larson, better known as Papa Jake, the beloved American World War II veteran who touched millions on TikTok with his heartfelt and vivid stories from the frontlines, has passed away at the age of 102.
Larson’s granddaughter, McKaela, shared the news in a TikTok post on Thursday, revealing that he died “peacefully” on July 17.
“It’s with a heavy heart that I have to make this announcement. Our beloved Papa Jake has passed away on July 17th at 102 years young,” the post reads.
“Please know, he went peacefully and was even cracking jokes til the very end. At this time the family and I ask for some privacy as we process this loss.
“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.”
Larson, who was born on December 20, 1922, in Owatonna, Minnesota, began his military journey early—enlisting in the Minnesota National Guard at just 15 years old after falsifying his age. He would go on to serve in the 135th Infantry Regiment of the 34th Red Bull Division.
In 1942, he was deployed to Northern Ireland with the American Army and rose to the rank of operations sergeant. He later played a role in the planning of the D-Day invasion.
On June 6, 1944, Larson was among the 34,000 Allied troops who landed on Omaha Beach during the Normandy invasion. He survived the brutal storm of machine-gun fire that claimed the lives of many around him.
In his later years, Larson gained a new generation of admirers by sharing his wartime stories on TikTok under the handle @storytimewithpapajake, where he amassed 1.2 million followers. His ability to recount history with humor, humility, and heart made him a standout figure on social media.
His impact reached beyond TikTok—his YouTube channel drew more than 16,000 subscribers, and his D-Day interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, aired in June, was honored with an Emmy Award.
Following the announcement of his passing, tributes flooded social media as fans, veterans, and admirers celebrated his remarkable life and legacy.
Even in his final days, Larson remained true to himself—sharp, witty, and full of life. As his granddaughter said, “He was even cracking jokes til the very end.”
Jake Larson may be gone, but through his stories, courage, and humor, Papa Jake will be remembered for generations to come.
#PapaJake
#JakeLarson
#Tiktok
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