James Van Der Beek’s younger brother, Jared Van Der Beek, took to Instagram on Friday to thank those who have reached out following James’ death on Wednesday.
“There’s a special bond that exists between brothers and two days ago, that physical bond was broken,” he wrote. “I now know why people call it heartbreak when you lose someone close to you. There is a feeling of devastation and pain that runs so deep in the heart, I didn’t know it would hurt so badly. He was my person, the one I went to for any and all things. I’ve looked up to him since I was born. He has never failed to be there for me whenever I needed him.”
“It has been wonderful reading and seeing how he touched so many lives not because of something he did, but because of who he was,” he added. “He shared with an open heart and with his wise soul. As painful as this pain deep in the heart is, the healing has already begun with all the outpouring of love, prayers, and support. I truly thank all of you have taken the time to reach out, letting me know that you’re there. The community of people who were intimately involved in his passing were nothing short of amazing. Thank you to everyone known and unknown who helped his transition be as beautiful as possible.”
James Van Der Beek died on Feb. 11 after a battle with colorectal cancer. He was 48 years old.
The Van Der Beek family announced James’ death in a statement posted on Instagram: “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. 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.”