James Van Der Beek’s brother, Jared Van Der Beek, gave a touching eulogy on the “Dawson’s Creek” actor’s death.
Jared shared a memory of his brother in an Instagram post on Friday.
He kicked off the merry-go-round with a sweet snap of James cheering him on at what appears to be a university graduation ceremony. Jared wrote the words “I love you, brother” over the photo.
“There’s a special bond between brothers, but that physical bond was broken two days ago,” Jared said.
“Now I understand why people call it heartbreak when you lose someone close to you. There is a sense of devastation and pain that spreads deep inside, and I never knew it could hurt so much. He is someone who means so much to me and I have relied on him for everything. I have looked up to him since I was born. Whenever I needed him, he was always there for me.”
In light of his brother’s death, Jared said, “I find solace in reading and seeing how he touched so many lives, not because of something he did, but because of who he was.”
“He opened his heart and shared his wise soul. This pain deep inside is painful, but with the outpouring of love, prayers, and support, healing has already begun. We are so grateful to everyone who has taken the time to reach out and let us know they are there,” Jared wrote.
“The community of people who were closely involved in his passing was amazing. We would like to thank everyone, known and unknown, who worked to make his transition as beautiful as possible.”
He addressed his last words to his deceased brother and concluded by saying “I love you” one last time.
“James, I already miss your physical presence and your words of wisdom on the phone. But I also feel your presence so strongly, and I know you will continue to guide me. Thank you for living your life with me. I love you.”
James passed away on February 11th at the age of 48 after a nearly three-year battle with colorectal cancer.
His family announced his death in a statement on Instagram.
“He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. He has much to share about his wishes, his love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. That day will come,” wrote Kimberly Van Der Beek, James’ wife.
After his death, many celebrities, including his former “Dawson’s Creek” co-stars, remembered the actor with posts celebrating his life and career.
“I feel so sad for your beautiful family,” Sarah Michelle Gellar wrote. “James’ legacy will live on forever, but this is a great loss not only to your family but to the world. Fk Cancer.”
“Sending love and light to your beautiful family,” Chad Michael Murray said. “James was a giant. We are so sorry for what you are going through. His words, art, and humanity were an inspiration to all of us. He inspired us to be better in every way. God bless you all.”
Katie Holmes, who co-starred with James as Joey Potter on the ’90s WB series, posted a poignant handwritten letter to James on Instagram on Wednesday, writing, “With the reality of his absence, we mourn this loss and are deeply grateful for his footprint.”
