Noelani Rochelle Sacatropez

With profound sadness and enduring love, we announce the passing of Noelani Rochelle Gifford, a remarkable young woman whose spirit and creativity touched the lives of many. Noelani left this world peacefully on April 4, 2026, at UCSF Hospital, after a courageous battle with autoimmune disease, diabetes, and lupus. She was 21 years old. Noelani was born on February 26, 2005, in Stockton, California, to Jonas and Dawn Gifford. Raised by her beloved grandmother Nadine, whom she lovingly acknowledged as her mom, Noelani grew up surrounded by a close-knit family that included her cherished Uncle Jeremy and siblings Leimomi, Mahealani, and Kimo. She was also deeply loved by a host of aunties, uncles, cousins, and extended ohana. Education was a testament to Noelani's resilience and determination. Despite her ongoing health challenges, she accomplished her high school education through North Star Independent Study in Plymouth, California. Her journey was marked by a passion for art, and her dream was to become a tattoo artist. Her Hawaiian heritage infused her work with inspiration and was a source of pride, influencing her creativity and her deep love for music, family, and friends. Noelani's life was defined by her dreams, and her greatest desire was to experience motherhood. Despite the heartache of losing a baby just before a planned gender reveal celebration, she remained hopeful and resolute. On November 13, 2024, Noelani's dream was realized with the birth of her son, Kekoa, born four months premature. Though both mother and son faced significant health challenges, Kekoa's resilience mirrored his mother's indomitable spirit. Noelani was known for her vibrant personality and fierce determination. She was an avid lover of life, finding joy in fishing, swimming, shooting skeets, road trips, and especially in caring for horses and animals. Her artistic talents were reflected in her phenomenal creations, from drawings to tattoos and various DIY projects. Noelani's adamant nature ensured that her voice was always heard, and those who visited her in the hospital remember her candidness and the warmth she spread even in her most trying times. Her legacy lives on in her son, Kekoa, and in the memories cherished by her family and friends. Noelani is survived by her parents, Jonas and Dawn; her siblings Leimomi, Mahealani, and Kimo; and her grandmother Nadine. She is also fondly remembered by her uncle Jeremy and many other family members. A celebration of Noelani’s life will take place on May 30, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Bob Johnson Park, located at 10916 Trinity Parkway, behind Walmart. In honor of Noelani's generous spirit, the service will be a potluck style gathering. Condolence cards may be given directly to Nadine Torres. Noelani's vibrant life, though short, was filled with love, dreams, and an unyielding spirit. Her memory will forever be in our hearts, as we hold her close until we meet again. A Hui Hou Kakou ~ Hele Pu Me Ke Akua 🌺 Always and forever in our hearts, Noelani Rochelle Gifford.