Arlene Beth Antonovich Harrison, a cherished member of the San Pedro community, passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 89. Her legacy is marked by her deep connections to family, her vibrant personality, and her commitment to environmental activism. Arlene was the beloved mother of four sons and the widow of Claude K. Harrison, who died in 2018 after 42 years of marriage.
Born into a Croatian fishing family, Arlene embraced her heritage throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her brother Carl Antonovich, who passed away in 2024. Arlene’s father, Carl Antonovich, and grandfather, John Antonovich, who emigrated from Korcula, Croatia, in 1907, played significant roles in shaping her identity and love for the ocean.
A Life of Creativity and Community
Known affectionately as Nene to her family and friends, Arlene was a passionate artist and an active member of the San Pedro Art Association. Her love for oil painting, especially capturing coastlines en plein air, was a testament to her keen eye for beauty and design. She often painted from her ocean view beach house, where she also hosted numerous dinner parties featuring traditional Croatian dishes, including her famous hobotnica octopus salad.
Arlene was not just a talented chef but also a nurturing figure who embraced her sons’ friends with open arms. She instilled a love for the beach and ocean in her four sons, teaching them how to swim at Cabrillo Beach. This passion for the sea fostered lifelong traditions, including summer weeks spent on Catalina Island, where family bonds deepened through shared experiences.
Her home on Bluff Place was a hub for family gatherings, where celebrations of significant milestones, including Fourth of July fireworks and Christmas Eve feasts, created lasting memories. Arlene’s ability to bring people together through love and laughter was a hallmark of her character.
Family Legacy and Community Impact
Arlene is survived by her sons: Robb (Debbe) Heberer, Craig (Teresa) Heberer, Karl (Julie) Heberer, and Chris (Maria) Heberer. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, including Heidi (Chris) Linscomb, Megan Wescott, Molly (Matt) Dragich, and Zack (Caitlin) Heberer, as well as her great-grandchildren.
In addition to her immediate family, Arlene is remembered by her stepsons, Chris Harrison and Brian (Felicity) Harrison, along with their children. Her impact extended beyond family ties, as she was actively involved in community initiatives, particularly through the San Pedro Boys and Girls Club, where her sons spent countless afternoons. Donations in her memory can be made to this organization or to the San Pedro Art Association.
A private Celebration of Life is being organized to honor Arlene’s wishes, gathering close family and friends to reflect on her remarkable life and the profound impact she had on those around her. As a matriarch, Arlene Antonovich Harrison’s love and dedication to her family and community will continue to resonate for generations to come.
