Candiah Kanagarayer: A Friend to All, A Stranger to None

Candiah (Raja) Kanagarayer, 85, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, July 15th, 2026 at his home in Medford, Massachusetts surrounded by his beloved family. He was born on June 14th, 1941 in Tholpuram, Sri Lanka to Candiah and Saraswati Chellappah.

Raja was most proud of his service working for the U.S. Army from 1977 to 1995 in Iran and Germany, showcasing a tremendous level of dedication and leadership. He was regarded as a natural leader of the local Tamil community in Frankfurt, as he helped Tamils acclimate after emigrating from Sri Lanka and helped foster a united Tamil community. In 1997, he moved with his family to the United States and made Boston their new home where he cultivated a similar love for community with unmatched warmth and generosity.

Raja enriched everyone around him with his wisdom, charisma, and humor. He lived his life to the fullest and was revered by everyone who knew him for his unwavering care and compassion, always going out of his way to support others. He lived by the principle of always doing the right thing, guided by the values of punctuality, honesty, and loyalty. Deeply devoted to his family and friends, he remembered every important detail that made each of them feel special. Those who knew him will forever cherish the vivid stories he shared, captivating and entertaining everyone in the room.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Vignarany (Rasathi) Kanagarayer; his children Anusha, Kavitha, and Krishna; his grandchildren Shreeram, Karthik, Luxmi, and Vishnu; his son in-laws Murali and Sugunan; and many loved ones around the world.

Family, friends, and everyone whose life Raja has blessed are invited to the Memorial Service on Sunday, July 19th, 2026 to celebrate his devoted life of 85 years. Please see the details below.

Carrier Family Funeral Home & Crematory

38 Range Road

Windham, New Hampshire

9 AM - Viewing

10 AM - Last Rites

11 AM - Final Respects & Cremation

Please join us for lunch at the same location following the memorial.

Anusha: (610) 858-0785

Kavitha: (617) 909-2315

Krishna: (610) 302-0006