James Van Der Beek didn’t want to wait to live his life to the fullest.
The actor, beloved for his portrayal of Dawson’s Creek’s titular character, died Feb. 11 after battling colorectal cancer. He was 48.
The Varsity Blues star is survived by his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek and their kids Olivia, 15, Joshua, 13, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9, Gwendolyn, 7, and 4-year-old Jeremiah.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” a statement posted to James and Kimberly’s Instagram accounts confirmed. “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,” the message continued. “Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
Throughout his years-long health journey, James was supported by his family and friends, including Dawson’s Creek costars Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson and Michelle Williams, who sent their love when he was forced to miss the cast’s reunion in September.