In a profoundly moving final act, the late Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek renewed his wedding vows with his wife, Kimberly, just days before his tragic death from colorectal cancer. The intimate ceremony took place in their bedroom, surrounded by flowers and candles, with loved ones watching via Zoom.
A Heartbreaking and Beautiful Farewell
James Van Der Beek, who passed away peacefully on February 11 at the age of 48, was determined to reaffirm his love for his wife in his final days. Kimberly Van Der Beek revealed to People Magazine that the couple decided to renew their vows only two days before the ceremony. Friends provided new rings and transformed their bedroom into a sacred space filled with floral arrangements and candlelight for the occasion.
"We renewed our vows from bed," Kimberly explained, describing the moment as "simple and beautiful and moving." The ceremony included musical accompaniment from close friend Porangui, culminating in a poignant rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" that served as the final song.
Family and Final Preparations
The Van Der Beeks, who first married in August 2010, share six children: Olivia, 15, Joshua, 13, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9, Gwendolyn, 7, and Jeremiah, 4. In addition to the vow renewal, James made significant arrangements to secure his family's future before his passing.
Just one month prior to his death, the actor purchased a £3.5 million ranch in Spicewood, Texas, through an off-market deal completed on January 9. The property spans 36 acres and features multiple cabins, a swimming pool, and extensive outdoor space. This acquisition followed the family's 2020 relocation from Los Angeles to Texas, where they had initially leased the property.
James was determined to provide a stable home environment for his wife and children after his death, ensuring they would have a permanent residence despite his absence.
Final Days and Public Tributes
In the weeks leading up to his passing, James Van Der Beek's health deteriorated significantly. A source close to the family told Daily Mail that the actor was on hospice care and had become "rail thin" as his condition worsened. "He was mostly in bed because he was very weak, and he was not eating," the source revealed, noting that his decline was increasingly difficult for loved ones to witness.
Despite the physical challenges, James faced his final days with remarkable courage and grace. Kimberly announced his death in a heartfelt statement to followers, writing: "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace."
The statement continued: "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."
The vow renewal ceremony stands as a testament to the enduring love between James and Kimberly Van Der Beek, creating a final, beautiful memory amidst the tragedy of his premature death from colorectal cancer at age 48.
