Obituaries

William C. Canjar, 60, of Scranton, gracefully began his eternal dance in Heaven on January 2, 2025, held in the unwavering love of his devoted husband, Sean McAndrew, and his adoring family by his side. Bill and Sean celebrated their 6th wedding anniversary on July 27th.

Born on January 31, 1964, in Pittsburgh, PA, to the late Helen (Graham) and Joseph Canjar Sr., Bill was profoundly shaped by the kindness, affection, and light instilled in him by his beloved mother, whom he admired and loved deeply.

A graduate of Riverside High School, Class of 1982, William treasured the friendships and memories forged throughout his life, never forgetting a friend or acquaintance, no matter when or where their paths crossed.

Bill was a truly gifted artist. As an accomplished ballet dancer and instructor, he trained under the late Constance Reynolds of the Ballet Theatre of Scranton. His artistry graced the stage in iconic performances of The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Coppélia, and La Bayadère. Through his dedication, he left a lasting mark on the arts community, inspiring countless students and audiences with his passion and talent.

Bill’s artistry extended far beyond the stage. A gifted floral and wedding designer, his exceptional vision shone through in his former business, William Charles Design, in Boca Raton, Florida, and at McCarthy Flowers in Scranton, where his heart truly belonged. For decades, Bill celebrated life’s milestones and mourned its losses alongside his clients, using his talents to express what words often could not.

Bill was a passionate advocate for his friends’ local businesses, always championing their dreams and celebrating their successes. Bill made everyone he encountered feel truly valued. Whether you crossed his path for a fleeting moment or shared a lifetime of memories, he had an extraordinary way of making you feel like the most important person in the room—because, in his eyes, you genuinely were.

Bill never missed a chance to embrace life, and every moment he was part of became a celebration. With his flawless tan, perfectly styled hair, and magnetic personality, Bill exuded a vibrancy that lit up every room. It didn’t matter if he was relaxing at Moosic Lakes, dancing the night away at Posh, or exploring the beaches of Mexico—his animated, endlessly fun spirit left everyone laughing and smiling.

Bill was always ready to chase the sun to far-off places, but in truth, he was the sun. Those who love him now search for the light he so graciously shared, forever changed and better for having known him.

In addition to his parents, Bill is preceded in death by his father-in-law, William McAndrew.

Bill is survived by his adoring husband, Sean McAndrew; his brother Joseph Canjar and his wife, Marge; his sister Nancy Casey and her husband, Ron. He will also be deeply missed by his mother-in-law, Kathleen McAndrew; his sister-in-law, Katie McAndrew; his brother-in-law, Liam McAndrew, and his wife, Megan; his brother-in-law, Brian McAndrew; his beloved Irish Aunt Mary; and his faithful dog, Remy, who never left his side as well as many nieces and nephews.  Also surviving are siblings John and James Canjar, and Linda Lettica.

A celebration of Bill’s life will take place on Monday, with family and friends being welcome to pay their respects at St. Paul’s Church, 1510 Penn Ave. in Scranton, between 10:30 – 12:30 PM to be followed by a 12:30 PM Mass of Christian Burial. Burial will then follow at Cathedral Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Bill Canjar Fund at Scranton Area Community Foundation or the Hospice of the Sacred Heart c/o 30 E.D. Preate Drive, Suite 108, Moosic PA 18507.