James Van Der Beek secured a down payment for his family’s ranch in Texas prior to his death.
“James secured [a] down payment for the Texas ranch for the family with the help of friends through a trust so they could shift from rent to mortgage,” his rep told People on Saturday, February 14.
James and his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, had been living outside of Austin, Texas, with their six children since leaving California in 2020. (The pair shared daughters Olivia, 15, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9, and Gwendolyn, 7, and sons Joshua, 13, and Jeremiah, 4.)
Four years after their move, James shared his diagnosis with stage III colorectal cancer. Kimberly announced on Wednesday, February 11, that James died at age 48.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” she wrote via Instagram at the time. “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.”
Following news of James’ death Wednesday, friends of the family created a GoFundMe for donations after the Dawson’s Creek star’s cancer battle put a strain on their finances. The fundraiser has raised more than $2.6 million at the time of publication.
“In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future,” the GoFundMe description read. “The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time. The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead.”
The message continued, “Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education. Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives. Thank you for considering a gift to support them.”
One day later, friends of the Van Der Beek family expressed their gratitude for donors.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for showing up for James and his beautiful family,” the update read. “Your kindness has meant more than we can put into words. In the middle of deep grief, your support has been a light. It reminds us that love is real, that community is strong, and that James’s spirit continues to bring people together.”
The statement continued, “Right now, the family is taking time to mourn and be with one another. We kindly ask members of the media and the public to give them space and privacy as they walk through this painful season. Your respect and understanding will give them the room they need to heal.”
The message went on to ask to “continue to keep James’s wife and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers,” adding, “Thank you for honoring his life with compassion, generosity, and love.”
