Kimberly Van Der Beek marked her first Father’s Day without her husband, James Van Der Beek, by sharing an emotional tribute to the late actor on Instagram.
The post featured a carousel of photos of the “Dawson’s Creek” star with their six children, capturing tender moments of family life, as reported by Page Six.
“Missing you so much and thinking of how magnificent you were in every single way today. And somehow, from the other side? You continue to parent. You’re a marvel,” Kimberly wrote in the caption.
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Her words resonated deeply with followers and friends, many of whom offered heartfelt messages of love and support in the comments.
Actress Krysten Ritter shared, “The best of the best. Happy Father’s Day, James.”
Nikki Reed also sent her love, writing, “The best of the best forever. We love you so much, James. Wrapping all of your little people in the warmest hugs today, and always.”
Mary-Margaret Humes, one of James’ “Dawson’s Creek” co-stars, paid tribute to him as well, posting her own Father’s Day remembrance over the weekend.
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James Van Der Beek passed away on February 11 at age 48 after battling colorectal cancer. Kimberly shared the heartbreaking news in a joint Instagram statement, revealing that he “passed peacefully” and that he faced his final days “with courage, faith and grace.”
She added that his life was guided by “love for humanity and the sacredness of time,” leaving an enduring message for those who knew him.
James had been privately battling stage 3 colorectal cancer since August 2023. In November 2024, the actor told People magazine that he chose to make his diagnosis public only after learning that “a tabloid was going to run with the news.”
That same month, he spoke openly about the financial pressures that came with his treatment and began selling autographed “Varsity Blues” merchandise to help cover costs.
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He also sold memorabilia from “Dawson’s Creek,” including items from his character Dawson Leery’s wardrobe and set decor.
Earlier that year, in March, James shared a candid reflection on the toll his illness had taken on his family life, admitting he “could no longer be the husband that was helpful to [his] wife” and “could no longer be a father, who could pick up his kids and put them and be there for them.”
Despite the physical and emotional challenges, Kimberly frequently expressed her admiration for him. In a previous Instagram post, she described James as a “treasure,” writing, “I feel like the luckiest lady in the world to be married to you.”
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The couple married in August 2010 and built a family of six: Olivia, 15, Joshua, 14, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 10, Gwendolyn, 8, and Jeremiah, 4.
On this first Father’s Day since his passing, Kimberly’s tribute offered a glimpse into the enduring love that defines their family—one that extends beyond loss and continues to honor James’ lasting influence as a father and partner.
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