James Van Der Beek’s Brother Expresses Gratitude to Supporters Following His Passing: “He Meant the World to Me”
As fans and loved ones mourn the passing of James Van Der Beek, his family is expressing deep gratitude for the support they have received.
Jared Van Der Beek, the actor’s younger brother, acknowledged the outpouring of love and thanked those who “have taken time to reach out,” as well as those who contributed to making his brother’s “transition be as beautiful as possible.”
In a heartfelt statement posted on Instagram, he stated, “There’s a special bond that exists between brothers and two days ago, that physical bond was broken.”
He continued, “I now know why people call it heartbreak when you lose someone close to you. There is a feeling of devastation and pain that runs so deep in the heart, I didn’t know it would hurt so badly. He was my person, the one I went to for any and all things. I’ve looked up to him since I was born. He has never failed to be there for me whenever I needed him.”
Jared shared that it has been “wonderful reading and seeing how he touched so many lives not because of something he did, but because of who he was. He shared with an open heart and with his wise soul. As painful as this pain deep in the heart is, the healing has already begun with all the outpouring of love, prayers, and support. I truly thank all of you who have taken the time to reach out, letting me know that you’re there.”
He added, “The community of people who were intimately involved in his passing were nothing short of amazing. Thank you to everyone known and unknown who helped his transition be as beautiful as possible.”
Jared concluded, “James, I already miss your physical being and your words of wisdom over the phone. Yet, I also feel your presence so strongly and I know you will continue to be guiding me. Thank you for living your life with me. I love you.”
On Wednesday, Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly, announced that he had died at age 48 after revealing a colorectal cancer diagnosis.
The family shared on Instagram, “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
