Gianna tragically lost her life in a hiking accident at Makaleha Falls Trail in Kapa‘a, Hawaii, while exploring the waterfall of her dreams with her partner. Her passing has left an indelible void in the hearts of her family, friends, colleagues, and the many lives she touched with her warmth, creativity, and compassion.
Raised in California, Gianna was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend, whose close-knit family was her greatest source of joy. Professionally, Gianna was a rising star in the culinary world. At Jeune et Jolie, she honed her craft as an executive pastry chef, contributing to the restaurant's prestigious Michelin star accreditation with her artistry and dedication. Beyond the kitchen, Gianna’s compassion shone through her volunteer work at animal rescue shelters, where she cared for animals in need.
Raised in California, Gianna was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend, whose close-knit family was her greatest source of joy. Professionally, Gianna was a rising star in the culinary world. At Jeune et Jolie, she honed her craft as an executive pastry chef, contributing to the restaurant's prestigious Michelin star accreditation with her artistry and dedication. Beyond the kitchen, Gianna’s compassion shone through her volunteer work at animal rescue shelters, where she cared for animals in need.
The circumstances of Gianna’s passing have added to the heartbreak. After her accident, first responders, including the Kauai Fire Department’s Rescue 3 crew, worked tirelessly to save her. She was airlifted from Makaleha Falls to Wilcox Memorial Hospital in Kauai, then to The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu, with emergency transport between hospitals.
Despite these efforts, Gianna could not be saved, leaving her loved ones to navigate an unimaginable loss. A GiveSendGo campaign, which has raised nearly $17,000, is supporting the Buzzetta family with medical expenses, life flight costs, emergency travel, Gianna’s return to San Diego, and funeral arrangements.
Gianna's sudden departure has sparked an outpouring of love across San Diego and beyond. “Her light will shine through the lives she touched,” her family shared, finding solace in the community’s support.
Gianna's sudden departure has sparked an outpouring of love across San Diego and beyond. “Her light will shine through the lives she touched,” her family shared, finding solace in the community’s support.
Originally published on March 31, 2025.
