Papa Jake Larson, D-Day Veteran and TikTok Star, Dies at 102

Papa Jake Larson, who survived a shootout in Normandy during World War II and later found fame on TikTok, has passed away at the age of 102. He had amassed 1.2 million followers by sharing stories honoring his fellow soldiers and the memories of the war.

The Minnesota native, known for his charming smile and warmth, was also an animation speaker. His granddaughter recently posted a message on social media, quipping that he was “joking” about his death, which reflects his lighthearted spirit.

Larson’s TikTok account, “Time of Story with Papa Jake,” connected with fans across the U.S., particularly in his adopted home of Lafayette, California.

Towns near Normandy continue to remember the veterans who fought against the Nazis during World War II, including Larson.

“Our beloved dad Jake passed away on July 17th at the age of 102,” his granddaughter McCaela wrote. “He went to peace.” She added a heartfelt, “As Dad says, I love you the most.”

Born on December 20, 1922, in Owatonna, Minnesota, Larson joined the National Guard at just 15, lying about his age. By 1942, he was deployed to Northern Ireland and later became an operational sergeant responsible for planning the Normandy invasion.

During D-Day, June 6, 1944, he was among the nearly 160,000 troops who stormed the beaches. He survived machine-gun fire that claimed many lives as he landed on Omaha Beach.

Reflecting on that day years later, he shared with the Associated Press how lucky he felt to have survived, saying, “We are their family, and we have a responsibility to honor these people who have given us the opportunity to live.”

Larson continued to fight in the Battle of the Bulge and earned several honors, including the Bronze Star and the French Legion of Honor.

In his later years, Larson made numerous trips back to Normandy for D-Day commemorations. He was often approached by fans eager for selfies, and he welcomed them with open arms.

One touching moment occurred in 2023 when he met 99-year-old British veteran Bill Gladden, who had a remarkable story of his own. Their meeting was emotional, highlighting a shared bond forged through experience. Gladden passed away the following year.

Throughout his TikTok posts, Larson mixed humor with poignant reminders about the realities of war. He often stated, “I’m not a hero,” but he also sent a message to world leaders about the importance of peace over conflict.

He referred to himself as “the luckiest man in the world” and expressed surprise at his fame, saying, “I’m just a country boy. Now I’m a TikTok star.”

Institutions around Normandy honored veterans like Larson and shared his story, recognizing his role in preserving their legacy.

“He was an exceptional witness and a bearer of memory,” wrote the Overlord Museum on social media. “His smile, humility, and story touched all generations. His story lives on. Rest in peace, Dad Jake. Thank you for everything.”