Dana Michelle Bucci

Dana had many achievements throughout her short lifetime. She graduated and received a chef’s certificate in Culinary Arts while in Austin, Texas. She went on to receive a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management from the University of Houston Conrad Hilton School. Later, she returned to U of H to receive a degree in English and earned a Texas Teacher Certificate. Throughout her career as a chef, she applied her knowledge as Executive Chef at various restaurants in Houston. Dana became a teaching chef after Guthrie Center in Spring Branch ISD invited her to join their high school program. This final position brought her great joy as she worked with students from high schools within the district. Dana was able to bring her love of travel and knowledge of various cuisines from countries such as Costa Rica, Belize, Barbados, Spain, Turkey and Morocco to her students.

Another great joy for Dana was entertaining and event planning. Throughout the years, she brought friends and family together to enjoy her love of food, community and laughter. And, of course, added to every gathering was her huge smile and best laugh that will always be remembered.

Dana is preceded in death by her father, James M. Burkhalter of Texas City, Texas, step-mother, Glenda Burkhalter of Texas City, Texas and step-father James C. Whisenant of Houston, Texas. Surviving family members are her husband, Ben Bucci of Houston, Texas, her mother, Brenda Whisenant of Houston, Texas, and many in-laws, aunts, uncles and cousins. Also surviving Dana are her lifelong friends who were like sisters, Jennifer, Maggie and Shante. Additionally, she wished to include her dogs—Dobby, Sous, and Willis—who she loved and cherished as if they were her children.

There is a long list of friends and family members who visited and provided care and support as they held Dana’s hand during her end-of-life time. They know who they are, and their devotion to her reflects her deep love for them.