James Van Der Beek’s widow, Kimberly Van Der Beek, reacted to Eric Dane’s death with a touching tribute just a little over a week after losing her husband.
“RIP @realericdane. We love you,” Kimberly, 44, wrote via her Instagram Stories on Saturday, tagging Dane’s widow, Rebecca Gayheart.
“Will miss our guys laughing at Christmas parties together.”
Along with the kind words, Kimberly reposted a photo of the two couples posing together for a photo at the Chrysalis Butterfly Ball in June 2017.
Dane died on Thursday, Feb. 19, at age 53 after a brief battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
The actor’s family announced his passing in a statement given to People, honoring the actor’s “courageous” fight with the neurodegenerative disease.
“Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight,” the statement continued. “He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always.”
“Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received. The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this impossible time.”
According to the statement he was surrounded by “dear friends, his devoted wife [Rebecca Gayheart], and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world” in his final days.
The “Dawson’s Creek” alum died at age 48 on Feb. 11 after a nearly three-year battle with colorectal cancer.
In an Instagram statement, his wife Kimberly Van Der Beek confirmed the “beloved” actor’s passing.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” Kimberly wrote.
“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.”
