For Kimberly Van Der Beek, the day is filled with heartfelt memories of the life she shared with her husband. Kimberly is remembering her late husband, James Van Der Beek, on what would have been his 49th birthday.
On Sunday, Kimberly shared a heartfelt message on Instagram while posting a photo of the couple together outdoors.
Wife Honors James Van Der Beek With Heartfelt Message on What Would Have Been His 49th Birthday.
GettyThe tribute reflected the deep sense of loss still surrounding the family in the weeks since the actor’s passing.
In the message read by Entertainment Now, Kimberly shared: “Would be your 49th birthday today. And I’m missing you tremendously.”
The message marked the first birthday since the former DWTS star died on February 11 after battling stage 3 colorectal cancer. A day that once would have been filled with celebration now carries a quiet sense of remembrance for the family and loved ones he leaves behind.
The Family He Leaves Behind
James is survived by Kimberly and their six children. The couple shared daughters Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, and Gwendolyn, along with sons Joshua and Jeremiah.
Along with the birthday message, Kimberly shared additional photos and videos showing the sweetest moments between James and their children. The images offered a glimpse into the family life he often spoke about and deeply valued in his final years.
The posts captured simple, heartfelt memories of the actor as a devoted husband and father. For the family, the day held both sorrow and gratitude as they reflected on the life and love they shared with him.
James Van Der Beek’s Cancer Diagnosis and Final Months
James first shared news of his cancer diagnosis in November 2024 with People. At the time, he revealed he had been undergoing treatment while focusing on what mattered most to him, spending meaningful time with his family.
The illness had been discovered earlier, after a routine colonoscopy in August 2023. In the months that followed, he spoke candidly about navigating treatment while trying to remain present for everyday family moments.
After his passing, Kimberly shared the heartbreaking news in an emotional Instagram post.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.”
She later added that the family would share more about his wishes and the legacy he hoped to leave behind when the time felt right.
“There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For no,w we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
A Love Story That Spanned More Than a Decade
James and Kimberly first met in 2009 and married in August 2010. In the years that followed, they built a life together centered on family, eventually welcoming six children.
People reported that in 2020, the couple chose to leave Los Angeles and settle in Texas, embracing a quieter pace of life focused on raising their children.
Just days before his passing, the couple renewed their wedding vows in an intimate, deeply personal ceremony.
“We decided two days beforehand, and our friends got us new rings, filled our bedroom with flowers and candles, and we renewed our vows from bed,” Kimberly told People.
GettyShe later described the moment as simple, beautiful, and deeply moving.
After the actor’s death, friends created a GoFundMe campaign to support the family during an incredibly difficult time.
The fundraiser surpassed $1 million in less than 24 hours, helping cover medical expenses and provide support for Kimberly and their children.
For Kimberly and the couple’s six children, the birthday tribute is another reminder of the love they shared and the memories that continue to live on.
