Beloved San Pedro Community Member Arlene Antonovich Harrison Passes Away

Arlene Beth Antonovich Harrison, aged 89, passed away peacefully in her sleep, leaving behind a legacy of love and community involvement. Known affectionately as Nene, she was a cherished mother and a dedicated member of the San Pedro community. Arlene was preceded in death by her husband, Claude K. Harrison, who passed away in 2018, and her brother, Carl Antonovich, who died in 2024.

A Lifelong Commitment to Community and Family

Arlene’s roots in San Pedro ran deep, tracing back to her Croatian fishing family. Her father, Carl Antonovich, and grandfather, John Antonovich, who immigrated from Korcula, Croatia, in 1907, instilled in her a strong sense of identity and community. Throughout her life, she actively participated in environmental advocacy, embodying the spirit of a community-focused activist.

Creativity flowed through Arlene’s veins, evident in her passion for art and cooking. As a proud member of the San Pedro Art Association, she enjoyed painting coastal landscapes en plein air from her ocean view beach house. Her culinary skills were equally renowned, particularly her Croatian seafood dishes, which became a staple during family gatherings.

Creating Lasting Memories

Arlene’s home was a gathering place for family and friends. She hosted numerous dinner parties where laughter and stories were shared over meals that included her signature hobotnica (octopus) salad. She was also devoted to her four sons, teaching them to swim at Cabrillo Beach, fostering a love for the ocean that would extend to future generations.

Summer vacations on Catalina Island were a cherished tradition, filled with memories that would last a lifetime. Her beach house on Bluff Place was the backdrop for many family celebrations, including Fourth of July fireworks, Christmas Eve seafood feasts, and birthdays. These events reflected her commitment to family and community.

Arlene is survived by her sons, Robb Heberer (Debbe), Craig Heberer (Teresa), Karl Heberer (Julie), and Chris Heberer (Maria), along with their children and grandchildren, including granddaughters Heidi Linscomb and Megan Wescott, and great-grandchildren Jackson, Klara, Presley, Mars, and Prim. She also leaves behind stepsons Chris Harrison and Brian Harrison (Felicity) and their children, Emma and Ulysses, along with extended family and friends in both San Pedro and Korcula, Croatia.

A private Celebration of Life is being organized for immediate family and close friends, honoring Arlene’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the San Pedro Boys and Girls Club, where Arlene’s sons spent many afternoons, as well as to the San Pedro Art Association. These contributions will help continue her legacy of nurturing the community she loved.