James Van Der Beek’s wife shares emotional Father’s Day tribute after his death

James Van Der Beek’s wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, shared an emotional Father’s Day tribute to the late actor, marking the first time the family has observed the occasion since his death.

Kimberly, 43, posted a carousel of family photos on Instagram Sunday, featuring the Dawson’s Creekstar with their six children in tender, everyday moments.

In her caption, she reflected on his enduring presence in their lives, writing: “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.”

The post drew heartfelt responses from friends and colleagues, including actress Krysten Ritter, who wrote, “The best of the best. Happy Father’s Day, James,” while Nikki Reed added that the family was being wrapped in “the warmest hugs today, and always.”

The tribute came months after the actor’s death on February 11, when his family confirmed he had died peacefully following a battle with colorectal cancer. He was 48.

At the time, Kimberly described him as meeting his final days with “courage, faith and grace,” noting that the family would share more about his wishes and legacy in time.

Van Der Beek had been open about his health struggles, revealing in 2023 that he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer. In later interviews, he spoke candidly about the physical and emotional toll of treatment and its impact on his ability to work and care for his family.

Despite those challenges, he remained a devoted presence in his children’s lives, frequently sharing family moments before his passing.

Kimberly and James married in 2010 and share six children: Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn and Jeremiah.

The Father’s Day post adds to a growing number of tributes honouring the actor’s life and legacy, with his family continuing to reflect on his influence both as a father and as a public figure.