Lessons from James Van Der Beek: What He Wanted His Children to Learn

James Van Der Beek may have been known to millions as a television star, but at home, he was focused on something far more important — raising six children with strength, independence, and heart.

James Van Der Beek died at the young age of 48, leaving behind six children with his wife of 15 years, Kimberly Van Der Beek.

And while his family now faces an “uncertain future,” according to a GoFundMe page created following his passing, the actor made sure his children were equipped with the lessons they would need in life.

In 2020, the Van Der Beeks moved from Los Angeles to Texas to give their children more space and the chance to grow up surrounded by nature. It also became a place of healing after Kimberly suffered five miscarriages and James lost his mother.

At their ranch in Austin, Texas, James found daily opportunities to teach his children — Olivia, 15, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9½, Gwendolyn, 7, and sons Joshua, 13, and Jeremiah, 4 — meaningful life lessons.

After a winter freeze left their family without running water, he began to see everyday comforts differently. The experience pushed him to teach his children self-reliance and preparation for life’s unexpected challenges.

“For me, that’s learning how to provide basic needs, learning how to fix things, learning how to build things and creating efficient systems that allow me to live in harmony with my environment as much as possible,” James said.

His approach to parenting also centered on independence. “Be as careful as you need to be, not as careful as you can be,” he told his children.

He encouraged them to explore, take measured risks, and figure things out on their own — with clear boundaries in place — believing those experiences would help them grow stronger and more confident.

James and Kimberly also embraced the sense of community they found in Austin. “I do really feel looked out for,” James shared. “And to be able to show that to our kids and how we help out and become part of that process. In addition to give them room to run and ride, it’s been amazing.”

In August 2023, James was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The treatment forced him to pause many parts of his life, including the roles he valued most — father, provider, and husband.

During that difficult period, he came to a powerful realization: he was still “worthy of love.” It was a belief he hoped his children would carry with them.

More importantly, he encouraged them to choose happiness and authenticity. “Relax, enjoy the ride, and go towards what you love,” he said.

James died on February 11, 2026. According to an announcement shared on his Instagram account, “He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace.” The values he spoke about — resilience, self-reliance, and following what you love — remain part of the legacy he leaves behind.