Gloucester - Bryan W. Nikola, 49, of Gloucester, born May 11, 1976, passed away after a brave and dignified battle with cancer. He faced his illness with quiet strength, often downplaying his own struggles so as not to worry those he loved most—a reflection of the kindness and selflessness that defined his life.

Bryan was born to Keith Nikola and the late Hannah (Martin) Nikola. He grew up in Gloucester and graduated from Gloucester High School in 1994. A hardworking and skilled tradesman, Bryan worked as a service technician at Grand Banks Building Products and previously earned his living painting homes, a job he took pride in doing well.

Bryan had a deep appreciation for the things he loved. His prized possession was his Porsche 911, a symbol of his passion for cars. He cherished time spent golfing with his father, Keith, moments that meant more to him than he would ever say. If you were looking for Bryan on any given day, chances are you'd find him at The Lone Gull, coffee in hand, surrounded by great friends and easy conversation.

He had a sharp wit and a dry sense of humor—sarcastic, yet always polite. Bryan was known for knowing every line of every Seinfeld episode, and he loved great music, especially The Doors, often listening to his favorite records on his vinyl player. In his earlier years, he found joy in skiing and dirt biking, always drawn to movement, speed, and adventure.

Above all, Bryan was kind-hearted and deeply loyal. To know him was truly to love him.

Bryan is survived by his father, Keith Nikola; his sister, Meaghan Baldassano; his brother-in-law, Joseph Baldassano; and his beloved nieces, Olivia Testaverde and Cara Baldassano. He shared a special bond with Mason Adams, a relationship filled with unconditional love that Bryan deeply cherished. He is also survived by his best friend, Gretchen Adams, with whom he shared a profound and enduring friendship. Bryan leaves behind his uncle, Michael Pratt, cousins Michael (Pam) Pratt, Jonathan (Marilyn) Pratt, Chris (Lisa) Pratt, and Erin (Louis) Avila, Derek (Heather) Martin, as well as many more cousins and numerous dear friends who will miss him greatly.

He was predeceased by his mother, Hannah (Martin) Nikola; his grandparents, Edwin and Margaret Nikola, and Charles and Barbara Martin; and his cherished aunt, Gail (Martin) Pratt. In addition, his uncle Charles Martin and cousins Thomas Pratt, Charles Pratt, Malia Pratt and Charles Pratt II.

Bryan's warmth, humor, and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute or Brigham and Women's Hospital, where Bryan received amazing care. His family would like to send their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses who cared for him throughout his illness.

Visiting hours will be held in the Greely Funeral Home 212 Washington Street, Gloucester, on Sunday, February 15, 2026, from 12 to 3p.m. A service at the Greely Funeral Home will take place on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 11 a.m. Burial to follow in Wesleyan Cemetery. For online condolences, please visit www.greelyfuneralhome.com