On September 21, 1957, Haakon VII of Norway passed away peacefully at the age of 85 in Oslo, Norway. Haakon was the second son of Prince Charles of Denmark, who later became King Haakon VII of Norway in 1905, when the country peacefully adopted a new constitution and declared independence from Sweden. While still a prince in Denmark, Haakon had already served in the Danish Navy and achieved the rank of Vice Admiral. Norwegians remember Haakon for the strength, courage, and grace he showed during World War II, when Nazi Germany invaded his country. Although offered to leave and seek exile elsewhere, he chose to stay in Norway throughout the occupation and showed genuine respect for the Norwegian people by living in a way that appealed to their sentiment. At the end of the war, a grateful nation praised him for refusing to surrender to the Nazis and inspiring hope during the nation's struggle. Haakon leaves behind his eldest son, Crown Prince Olav, who succeeded him as king, and his wife, Crown Princess Maud. He is remembered fondly as a man of strong principle and a father figure for his country.