Dr.Main was the most compassionate skilled physician I had ever had the pleasure of meeting.  He operated on me for Spinal Stenosis in 2009 and everything was successful. I was seriously thinking of coming to NY to have him check on a new  back problem when I saw his obituary. I am truly heartbroken. Dr. Main was one of a kind. There is no doubt in my mind that he went straight to heaven. May he Rest in Peace. 🌹

I just learned of Ken’s passing.  I am so saddened for his family, friends, and patients.  Ken treated me like a family friend.  Our appointments were scheduled for 30 minutes and for 25 of them we talked family, his daughters, cars, and racing.  He did 3 fusions over 20 years on my neck and kept me in a race car- even though he suggested the vibration would “not be good for you”.  His diagnosis and treatment of my condition was perfect and his friendship, concern, and personal touch went beyond even that level.  I could call or email Ken at any time of day or night- he was there.  They don’t make‘em like that anymore….I will miss being able to stop by his office when I’m in NY.  Rest in peace.  You will be missed by many.

Just learning of his passing now. Tremendous doctor, father and human. They don’t make them like WKM anymore. Very saddened to hear of his passing. He certainly made the most of his time on Earth and helped and befriended many along the way.

To the daughters of William Main;    His 3 daughters were his whole life.  He spoke so highly about you and glowed when he talked about how much he loved the three of you.....I think of you so much and hope that you are continuing with your life knowing that your father was the proudest man I knew.  Morgan you and your dad reminded me so much of my father and myself.  I had two sisters and my father  was always there for me since like Morgan,  I was the youngest.  
I know come September it will be a reminder of his passing but he will always be there on your shoulders like my father was.  He is always watching you so make him proud.  I hope you like the photo of him in his office with Morgan's writing about her father hanging on the wall behind him.......He was the greatest doctor and everyone loved him........As much as he was proud of you I hope you are proud of him..........I will be saying a special prayer on September 4 for the greatest doctor that I was fortunate to have him do my surgery and for you his 3 daughters be proud of him.  May he Rest in Peace!

This is such an apt description of the personality and demeanor of Dr. Main as I knew him. I had major surgery on my lumbar spine at Lenox Hill Hospital in the summer of 2009. I was 23 years old and had never spent more than an hour or two in a hospital, so the prospect of such an invasive surgery was extremely intimidating to me.

Dr. Main was actually the 2nd orthopedist I consulted; the first was a slick young doctor whose whole vibe seemed more suited to Hollywood than Brooklyn. I found his cavalier demeanor very off-putting, so I looked for someone a bit more aligned with my Arkansas upbringing. I was referred to Dr. Main, who made me feel instantly comfortable, like an old family friend.

But he was much more than just a surgeon for me, during the most vulnerable situation of my life. He treated me with such respect despite my age… I think he saw something of himself in my own voracious intellectual curiosity; and he spoke to me as an adult and a peer, not just a patient.

My grandmother — who had dealt with a gauntlet of physicians, good bad and otherwise — absolutely adored him. They developed their own special relationship over a short space of time while she was helping me prepare for and recover from surgery. They simply don’t make ’em like Ken anymore, and I know he is deeply missed by many.

Omg ,just heard that Dr Main passed. So sad , he done my C5-C7 Spinal surgery in 2012. What a great Doctor and human being . R.I.P. 🙏🙏🙏

Dr Main did 3 fusion surgeries on me and basically saved my life.  He was my doctor and someone I looked at in the highest regard  I will miss him 

Terrible loss of an incredible human being. My deep condolences to the family. RIP Dr Main. You’re unforgettable.


I am one of the grateful patients of Dr. William Kennedy Main.  

Simply stated he had it “ALL”.  He was brilliant and smart, kind and caring, eloquent and elegant, had utmost integrity and decency and he practiced his craft with passion and compassion.  He can rest in peace, secure in the knowledge, that he treated his patient population “au plus haut degré”. 

He loved and was enchanted with his three daughters, Paloma, Sonia and Morgan. It can be expected that the love that he had, that was palpable, will serve to nurture them forever.  I would like to also extend my condolences to his Siblings; and to his Staff for the service that they caringly provided for many years.  

 Dr. Main’s Magic was, I believe, that all of his patients thought that he liked them the best.

I am appreciative for a lovely memory for a very lovely man.
With heartfelt sadness.
Carole N. Steele


Dr. Main stay focus on the Main idea! His eyes would sparkle…
I’m so sad today to hear that you have passed away.  RIP my dear friend and condolences to The Main Family.
To all at the office my deepest sympathies.  Mary continue being wonderful as you are. Dr. McMahon is also my doctor. I’ve been a patient since 2010. 
This is really hard to hear.
When my life of multiple injuries began at 876 Park Avenue it was my comfort and my forever life to stay well I am so stumped right now hearing of this loss I can’t stop crying.  I’ve had 2 shoulder surgeries and 3 cervical fusion surgeries. The upmost care I got from both of my doctors and staff will forever stay within me. Dr. Main always made me feel well not cause of surgeries but also of all my fears this is the memory I’ll forever hold. He was not a butcher, his bed side manner also involved comforting me into a transition of my new life. I recall the time that he took a personal and I had to see another doctor. I was so infuriated.  I called Mary and then she informed that Dr. Main is coming back but not taking  on many patients at this time. Dr. Main said yes and Mary set the appointment right  away. My mind is also what he repaired. That day we talked and also laughed off on the quack that I visited after my 3rd cervical fusion. Trust me Dr. Main no one else will touch your work thank you always. I believe not only his family is reading this but he too is reading this. We talked for a very long time I too was going to venture another new journey he was so proud to hear of my new purchase of my home in PA. I will continue to phrase this forever. He loved hearing of people’s happiness and this is admirable. Rest my friend and thank you…

Rodney K. Johnson
To the main Family. My Deepest condolences. I’m Very Shocked. Dr W.KM
Did a ACDF on me in 11-2014 and I needed another lumbar surgery since 2021 and put it off .. I was Just looking him up to make an Appointment and Seen he had passed Away
I’m in total Shock. Who will do my surgery Now I have NO IDEA.   God Be with the Family….great Guy !

One of the nicest person I have ever met. You have helped me so much. Rest In Peace. 

You helped my husband so much. One of his surgeries you told me in the office  that it would be an 8 hour surgery then before the actual surgery you told me like 4 hours. After 4 hours you sent someone out to tell me you would be another 4 hours. I didn’t have to ask anyone you  sent someone out to inform me. The after bending over my husband for 8 hours you personally came out to talk to me and tell everything I needed to know. Everyone else was getting phone calls and I got you, the actual doctor and surgeon who took the time to come and talk to me in person. You can’t imagine how that made me feel!  Others asked after you left if you were a relative or something. I answered no just the best and most caring doctor ever. I’m so sorry to hear of your passing. May you text in eternal peace. My sincere condolences to your family. 
Kelly Davies. 

Just found out about your passing we were communicating on face book you did 2 major spine operations on whole lumbar spine   You were a great dr easy going and carting. You will b missed.  Greg Davies

Although this is late I would like to extend my deepest  condolences. I meant Dr. Main about 3 years ago I have never met a most profound finally straightforward and in its truthfulness the most curious person speaking to him was life-changing and to be honest he was the only doctor I couldn't wait to see I will miss him very much just as he will be missed by everybody who knew him. 

I am so sorry. It's hard to believe. A Doctor with so much compassion he made you feel like a friend. I was a Police Detective in New York and badly hurt. It required open back surgery. I was recommended to him from a friend. Being the pain I was in I was in the hospital under morphine. He moved his schedule to get my surgery done. The morning of I was waiting/being prepped for surgery. when he walked in I had tears in my eyes as to the severity of the surgery. I had done some research and there was no guarantees my left leg would ever work again do to the sever damage to my L4 and L5. When I told him this he put his hand out, shook my hand and promised me he would be back in 3 days and walk me out of Lexington Hill Hospital. HE PROMISED and 3 days later. With crutches he showed up and walked me out. As far as Im concerned he gave me back my life. I considered him a friend. I stayed in touch for 10 years +. RIP my friend, the world will miss you. 

You are an incredible Physician who operated on my spine 3 years ago.   I never had pain again.after my surgery.......I am so sad to hear of your passing because there is no better doctor than you......Your patience / bedside manner / and knowledge is amazing.  Your 3 daughters are amazing thanks to your being in their life.  May you always be along side them to continue your love for them.....May you Rest in Peace ........a patient that will never forget your caring .....Linda

Dr. Main was an absolute gentleman and a voice of comfort for me when I was faced with making a tough decision regarding surgery.  I was a patient of his but truly felt like a friend after the many times we met and spoke.  He will be greatly missed and I was terribly saddened to hear about his untimely passing.  Rest easy Doc you will always be remembered as a great guy.

I've posted twice before but I'm posting again because I have no one else to tell; my wife is sick of I lamenting at the loss of this great soul.

I am still so upset. I've been a patient for 9 years and other than my medical situation we spent many many hours talking about everything.  Ken probably didn't hold me in the esteem I held him, but he sure made me feel like he did.

I hope my numerous and effusive posts do not make things harder on the Main girls, but I lost a best friend once before and, amazingly, this feels almost as bad.

Ken never finished explaining the meaning of life to me, and I'll never know because no one else I know is smart enough to do the job.

I have often heard people use the phrase 'touch stone'; I never understood what that meant until I met Ken Main.

I keep thinking that it's a bad dream, that it's so unfair and unfortunate that it can't possibly be true.

I  realize it might sound very odd to Ken's close friends and family, but I'm going to have a void in my soul forever.  

I am so sorry I already commented ,but had just heard the news and couldn’t even think straight I did not extend my  condolences to his immediate family ,his beautiful girls that he spoke of often I am deeply sorry for your loss ,Your father was an amazing man in every way and the best doctor I have ever known! He will be greatly missed by everyone he came in contact with,He personally helped me three times with surgery,my heartfelt sympathy to you all

I have no words ,for the loss of the Best doctor I have ever had the pleasure to have known for almost 30 years My heart my thoughts and prayers go out to his Wonderful Staff @876 Park Ave I am thinking of all of you ,and how heartbroken you must be ,for I surely am . With Heartfelt Sympathy and love   Diane Meyer

I’m very sorry for your loss Dr Main was the best doctor I have ever been to he was more then a Dr to his patients he will be missed may he rest in eternal peace my prayers are with his daughters and family 

Medicine has lost a brilliant mind. And, all of us whose lives he touched will forever be grateful, but a profound emptiness will follow us all til our final days. My heart goes out to his girls and office staff.

With deep gratitude to his family for sharing him with us all these years. 


William Main MD
 Outstanding physician, dear colleague, 
wonderful human,  deeply respected and admired
will  be missed and always remembered
rony

Dr. Main asked how old I was. “47, just like you!”  That was just a couple of months ago.  We were both  in our early 60’s. We laughed and continued on with our postop visit. He was interested and interesting. I looked forward to those visits and the conversations about whatever came up.  

I know that all his patients grieve with the family.  We will never find another surgeon as kind, competent or caring as Ken. We all knew he had a family because he spoke of his girls often and always in an adoring way.  
God bless the Main Family. 

Dr Main was the absolute best Doctor I have ever met!! He was not only the most knowledgeable but he was the most kind and compassionate.  He truly helped me numerous times and he will surely be missed. I can only say thank you to him amd that his loss is tragic to us all but I know he is truly in Heaven !! 

Ms Feliciano, 
Dr.Main 
How much am I going to miss him he was my doctor for five years I had two neck surgeries done with him he made me feel very comfortable he was not only a doctor he was a friend someone who took the time to talk to you about anything we sat in his office and talked about our children and about life. What doctor does that. My prayers go out to his family and his ex coworkers may he rest in peace and he will always be loved. I will never have another doctor like him he will truly be missed.

To the Main family,
              I was a new patient to Dr. Main and had only had my first appointment with him. I was so impacted by my time with him that I came home and told my wife what an amazing man he was. I knew that about him after one visit and I was actually looking forward to my next visit. It really was a doctor’s visit, not an appointment. I have never looked forward to seeing a doctor before. We talked about life and family. I showed him a note that my six year old daughter had slipped into my bag when I left and he showed me pictures that one of his daughters made that he kept in his wallet. He told me that there is a really special relationship that a daughter has with her dad and I had to agree. God really did spend some extra time when he made William Main and you knew that about him after one visit! To his girls and the rest of his family, I have no doubt that he is with you always and you will see him again, you absolutely will! God bless you all and help you through this very difficult time. 

First, my deepest sympathy and condolences to Ken’s family. Second, I need to express how much I will miss our conversations that were always so lively, varied and thought provoking. We agreed on many things, but we were always respectful and accepting of our differences when we didn’t. Rest well. Know that you are missed. 

I already left a message, but I have to leave another one because I need someone to explain to me how such a high quality human being could be taken from us far too soon, taken even though the world still needed him.

The problem is that the only person who could explain such a thing is the man whose passing needs explaining.  So now, I will never know, at least not in this life time.

I believe that Ken and I were simpatico in so many ways, but I know everyone felt that way about him.

Ken was an extremely high quality human being. He knew how to be a human being as well as, if not better than, anyone.  I don't know if he learned how to be a high quality human being or if he was just born that way, but I know that he knew. I've no doubt that after a few more conversations he would have told me.

Since Ken made such impressions on me, intellectually, emotionally, and philosophically during just medical appointments, numerous and lengthy as the were, it is truly unique and astounding.  Who knows of another person who could have such an effect on people?  I know I don't.

Winston Churchill said that it's not death a man should fear, it's never having lived.  Even though Ken did not live as long as he should have, while he was alive, he lived, and no one did it better.

Main girls: though not here, your father will be with me the rest of my life, so I know he will certainly be with you the rest of your lives.  While you cannot prevent being sad at his loss, please also be happy that you had such a high quality person in your lives for as long as you did.  The quantity of the time he spent with you was not enough because it could never be enough, but the quality of the time you had with him was something very few people ever get.

I say again: a soul like Ken Main's CANNOT END.

Rest well my friend.   I already miss the fishing trip we were going on but hey, one day.   Easily the most intelligent and interesting human I’ve ever met.  Ohhh the conversations.   Looking forward to our next sports argument. 
By the way. Go Blue Devils!!!!

Dr. Main, it was an honor to support you in the OR for 15 years. You were truly one in a million. I always thought you should write a book. Turns out you did! Several. Your knowledge and ability to speak intelligently on almost any topic was always something I admired. You were unapologetically you; faults and all - of which you didn’t mind sharing. I will so miss our banter, your parenting “advice” and your wry sense of humor. Who is going to plan my Disney trip now!?! Most of all, you loved and cherished your girls. And we all have the stories to prove it. RIP my dear friend. Not many people can say they literally touched as many lives as you did. That is a life well lived. Sending heartfelt condolences to Paloma, Sonia and Morgan, and the extended Main family.

This photo of Ken and Morgan was taken in  October 2012 at the school Dad’s and daughters Halloween party, which we usually attended together.  He loved Morgan, Paloma and Sonia with all of his heart.

I was just sitting in your office a week ago doing what we did best, laugh, swap stories, opinions , and your famous words,  what’s your thoughts on this? After catching up we got down to business on my next  and final surgery. Your didn’t want me to have to keep going through this so we both agreed let’s get it over with! You were the most caring, compassionate Dr I have ever known, holding my hand  before every surgery knowing my fear of going under, and always sitting there waiting for me to wake up. The endless calls checking up on me, and no matter how badly I felt you always had encouraging words to get me through. There will never be another You. We laughed when you realized we’ve been friends 22 yrs, how could that be when we’re both in our 30s ! ( if only) lol 
You were not only an exceptional Dr you were an exceptional human being. Your girls were the light in your life, that silly grin you had when speaking of them  was always so sweet. There are no words to thank you for all you’ve done for me as a Dr and a friend. Your endless knowledge on everything always taught me something new. I told you endlessly what an amazing Dr you were and to teach your interns your bedside manners and your caring and compassion, I hope they were listening, they were being taught by the best! My condolences to your girls, let them know your always with them and watch over them. Also to the rest of your family. I’ve been so blessed knowing you and will miss you beyond words, Fly high my Friend… until we meet again♥️♥️


So, I took this photo in early December, 2016.  The Chicago Cubs had just won the World Series, Donald Trump had won the presidential election, and Ken Main read The NY Times - all miracles.  We had a great laugh as we often did.  I’ll miss Ken’s clever banter, wit, and thoughtfulness.  Extending my deepest sympathy and warmest thoughts to family and friends.

I will forever be grateful to you for helping me when others would not and for giving me a better quality of life.
It was my privilege in getting to know You as more than my surgeon but also a friend and I will miss our conversations and the comfort of knowing that whatever needed to be fixed would be done with expertise and care.
My hope is that you are looking down and see all the people that you helped and all those who will miss you deeply.
My sincere condolences to your family, Rest In Peace my friend.

There is nothing I  an put in words that can do DOC ,justice. It would take pages to try and sum up how DOC changed peoples lives.I have been blessed by him being part of my life. He restored my body several times over many years,he gave me back my quality of life. I will miss the hours of great conversations we had over the years , DOC was brilliant and talking with him was like playing a game of chess with an old frind and master player. After 911 DOC  took a special interest in caring for firefighters and cops, he love caring for all people but he had a spot in his heart for those who were willing to sacrifice all for others he looked at us as heroic but I have to say that DOC was a hero to me. I am greatful to GOD for allowing me to have shared an amazing lunch with DOC not many months ago. We spoke about how life and this world present so many  difficulties, by lunch end we solved all the problems of humanity. But the most powerful and most memorable parts of our talk were about GOD and his plans for all of us and eternity. I was amazed at DOCS understanding of the bible and how versed he was in GODS plans for his creation. I am sad now because another one of the people I most cherished in my lifes journey has been called home. I miss him already as everyone who was blessed to know him is and will be. This place is a bit dimmer without DOCS light shining in it. GOD SPEED BROTHER!!! YOU ARE GREATLY LOVED AND A HERO TO MANY OF US. MAY THE PEACE AND LOVE OF GOD FILL THE HEARTS OF YOUR FAMILY MEMBER AND. RING THEM PEACE IN YOUR ABSENCE.

Dr. William Kennedy Main 
Doctor William Kennedy Main
embodied precious qualities of the Physicians and healers from long ago. He used all of his energy in his caregiving . His touch was therapeutic.👐 He performed 2 Spinal fusion on my Mom and she loved him to the core♥️
   On more than one occasion I spied her kissing his hands 🙌to express her admiration and her opinion that he was Blessed by God for all he did and was.  Ken we love you dearly and look forward to joining you in your heavenly reward🤝♥️

Paloma and family~
Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. 

My sincere condolences to all family, friends, and staff.   I was searching for conservative treatment, what I found was compassion, kindness, caring beyond expectations. You were too good for this earth. Rest in heavenly peace. Definitely not goodbye but til we meet again.

Dr.Main was my doctor and my friend. He fixed my back and gave me great life advice. He will be deeply missed by friends , patients and family. Words can't explain how much of a great person he was and  Doctor. My deepest condolences to his family .

He was an incredible person, and a kind man

My deepest and most sincere condolences to the children and family of Dr. Main.
He was a kind and generous man and he will forever be missed. It has been a privilege knowing him . May he rest in everlasting peace. 
                                                                                                                          
Agim Muskaj 

My deepest and most sincere condolences to the children and family of Dr. Main.
He was a kind and generous man and he will forever be missed. Dr Main was not just my boss for 20yrs he was my friend and mentor.  It has been a privilege knowing him and being a part of his life. May he rest in everlasting peace. 

Michelle Carrero 🙏❤️

My thoughts and prayers are with his three girls and family! To everyone in the office, my deepest condolences to you as well.  Dr. Main will always have a special part in my heart. From the time I first met him, he has always treated me as if we knew each other for years! The level of comfort that my family and I received from the Doc was unimaginable.  Every office visit came along with a great conversation and and enjoyment of life. He made our decision to undergo surgery easy because he knew that it was our decision to make, not his. 

I would really miss you Doc!!

J P

As I sit here writing these wonderful memories of an incredible surgeon and a great friend who operated on my spine.  I've told you many times that you were the greatest doctor and thanked you for  the perfect surgery you did for me.  We had so many wonderful conversations and I learned so much from you.  As I asked you many times how did you become so intelligent about everything we talked about.  And your response was "I read a lot "  I responded to you that I don't like to read and your response was "you're reading the wrong books".  He recommended a book that he knew I would love.  And that began my interest in reading.

Please watch over your daughters while you are in Heaven and always be around them, like I feel my father is around me.  They are so special and will need to know that you will be there for them.

Knowing you was such a honor and a fabulous experience.  I will always remember you with fond and funny memories and how much I learned from you. (I now read many books).  Doctor Main I will never forget you.  You left a place in my heart.  Until we meet again!!! 

Linda

He was my doctor but he made me feel more like a friend.  I don't doubt he made all of his patients feel that way, but he made me feel like I was number one and his friend.  I can't know for sure that he had the same impression of me as I had of him, but I sure believe he did.

As far as I know, he wasn't religious, but a soul like his just can't end, no matter what happens to the body; souls like Ken Main's JUST DON'T END.

RIP Doc! I will miss our talks very much. Always a learning experience. I can’t imagine our conversation we would have at this moment. You always had the knack to put things into perspective.  From the first visit you made me  feel comfortable and continued to do so through my surgeries. I remember a conversation we had and it was about when we leave this earth what we hoped people would say. Some stuff made us laugh but in the end through all the downfalls of life they’d  say “ he was a good man” . You weren’t just my Dr. you were my friend.  
May the road
 rise up to meet you.
May the wind be
always at your back.
May the sun shine
warm upon your face;
the rains fall soft upon
your fields and until
we meet again,
may God hold you
in the palm of His hand.   
God bless you and your family
God 

OBITUARY

William Kennedy Main

December 19, 1959 – September 4, 2022

Frank E. Campbell - The Funeral Chapel

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