Family, friends and community members packed St Patrick's Cathedral in Sturt St this morning to celebrate the life of the restaurateur and identity.

Born Nicholas Michael Marios in Ararat, Mr Marios died at his Nerrina home last Friday of a suspected heart attack.

He was aged 60.

Long-time friend and former Ballarat East MP Barry Traynor said Mr Marios would be remembered for his outstanding contributions to the community.

''Nick touched the lives of many people,'' Mr Traynor said.

''He was a motorcycle fanatic, a pistol shooter...he was passionate about many things.

''He was outspoken with strong feelings about any subject''

Mr Marios owned the pizza restaurant Nick's and the Sturt St cafe delicatessen The Olive Grove, a business which Mr Traynor said he was fanatic about.

''There are a sea of faces here with memories of Nick which will make them laugh, cry and shake their heads,'' he said.

Following the service, Mr Marios' coffin was driven past his award-winning business one last time.

The cortege of Cadillacs and motorcycles passed The Olive Grove, before making their way back down Sturt St and heading to the Ballarat New Cemetery for the burial.

Mr Marios is survived by his wife Vicky and children Peter, Deanna, Alethea and Alexandra.