Ken Paterson, better known as “POP” to his millions of fans on TikTok, died on December 15, 2023, at the age of 86. He was a beloved figure on the social media platform, where he shared his wisdom, humor, and positivity with his followers. He was also a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who cherished his family and his faith.
How Ken Paterson, or POP Became a TikTok Sensation
Ken Paterson was born on June 12, 1937, in Glasgow, Scotland. He moved to Canada with his family when he was 14 years old, and later settled in Ontario. He worked as a carpenter, a truck driver, and a school bus driver, before retiring in 2002. He married his wife, Shirley, in 1959, and they had four children, 10 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.
Paterson joined TikTok in 2020, after his granddaughter, Taylor, encouraged him to try it out. He quickly gained popularity for his videos, where he would answer questions from his fans, give advice, tell jokes, and spread love. He also showed off his Scottish accent, his dancing skills, and his signature catchphrase, “POP loves you.”
He amassed over 6 million followers on TikTok, and was dubbed “POP” by his fans, who saw him as a grandfather figure. He received countless messages of appreciation, admiration, and gratitude from his followers, who were inspired by his optimism and kindness. He also collaborated with other TikTok stars, such as Charli D’Amelio, Addison Rae, and David Dobrik.
| Name | Ken Paterson |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 12, 1937 |
| Place of Birth | Glasgow, Scotland |
| Date of Death | December 15, 2023 |
| Cause of Death | Pneumonia |
| TikTok Username | @poppaterson |
| TikTok Followers | Over 6 million |
| TikTok Catchphrase | “POP loves you” |
| Family | Wife, Shirley; four children; 10 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren |
| Charities Supported | Alzheimer Society of Canada, Canadian Cancer Society, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and more |
| Faith | Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints |
How POP Touched Many Lives
Paterson was not only a star on TikTok, but also a generous and compassionate person in real life. He supported various causes and charities, such as the Alzheimer Society of Canada, the Canadian Cancer Society, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He also donated money, food, and toys to local shelters, food banks, and hospitals.
Ken Paterson was especially passionate about helping children and seniors, who he felt were often neglected or forgotten by society. He would visit nursing homes, schools, and orphanages, and bring joy and comfort to the residents and students. He would also send personalized videos and messages to his fans who were going through hard times, such as illness, loss, or depression.
He was a man of faith, who believed in God and prayed every day. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and served as a missionary in Scotland for two years. He also shared his testimony and his love for God with his followers on TikTok, and encouraged them to find their own faith and purpose.
How POP Left a Legacy of Love
Paterson died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family, after a brief battle with pneumonia. He had been hospitalized for a week, and had posted his last video on TikTok on December 8, 2023, where he thanked his fans for their prayers and support, and said, “I love you all. God bless you.”
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Ken Paterson’s death was announced by his family on his TikTok account, where they posted a tribute video with the caption, “We are heartbroken to announce that our POP has passed away. He was the most amazing man, and we are so grateful for the time we had with him. He touched so many lives, and we know he is watching over us from heaven. We love you POP.”
His death sparked an outpouring of grief and condolences from his fans, friends, and fellow TikTok stars, who expressed their sadness and their gratitude for his impact on their lives. Many of them shared their favorite memories, videos, and quotes from him, and used the hashtag #RIPPOP to honor him.
He was also remembered by various media outlets, celebrities, and organizations, who praised him for his positivity, generosity, and influence. He was featured on the Today Show, the Ellen DeGeneres Show, and the People Magazine. He was also recognized by the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, who tweeted, “Ken Paterson, or POP as he was known to millions, was a shining example of kindness, joy, and hope. He made the world a better place, and he will be dearly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his fans.”
Paterson’s legacy lives on through his family, his fans, and his videos, which continue to inspire and uplift people around the world. He was a man who lived a full and happy life, and who shared his love with everyone he met. He was a true TikTok legend, and a beloved POP to all.
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