Who was Jake Larson?

Jake Larson, better known as "Papa Jake" on social media, was a World War II veteran who became an online sensation after his great-grandson started posting videos of their adventures on TikTok.

The TikTok fame

The account, run by Larsenn's great-grandson Nathan, started posting videos in 2020. The duo's rapport and Papa Jake's undeniable charm soon made the channel a viral hit.

A lifetime of adventure

Larson was just 19 when he fought in WWII, working as an engineer. He returned home and had a family, but couldn't shake his wanderlust and spent decades exploring the world.

Legacy

With more than 800,000 followers on TikTok and over 1 million on Instagram, Papa Jake inspired thousands of young people with his boundless energy and wisdom.