D-Day veteran “Papa” Jake Larson, who became a cherished social media sensation later in life, has passed away at the age of 102.

Born in Minnesota in 1922, Larson enlisted at a young age in the National Guard, later enduring German fire in Normandy in 1944. In his 90s, he started to share tales of his wartime experiences and moments with fallen friends, winning over millions of hearts on TikTok and making international news.

In a conversation with the AP, Larson discussed the traumas of war, encouraging world leaders to “achieve peace.” Just three weeks prior, he co-received an Emmy award alongside journalist Christiane Amanpour for their interview commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Larson frequently referred to himself as “the luckiest man on earth.”

His granddaughter McKaela Larson announced his death on social media, conveying to followers, “Please know, he passed away peacefully and was even sharing jokes until the very end.”

In the wake of the announcement, tributes to Papa Jake poured in from all around the United States. Communities in Normandy also honored the veteran; Larson had made several visits to the area to commemorate D-Day.

“I am immensely grateful to have shared my Papa Jake with you all,” his granddaughter expressed. “You meant the world to him. As Papa would often say, love you all the mostest.”