Arlene Beth Antonovich Harrison, a cherished member of the San Pedro community, passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 89. Her death marks the end of an era for her family and friends, who fondly remember her as a devoted mother and passionate environmental activist.
Harrison was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, Claude K. Harrison, who died in 2018, and her brother Carl Antonovich, who passed away in 2024. Known affectionately as Nene to her family, she was deeply rooted in her Croatian heritage, stemming from a fishing family that has been part of the San Pedro landscape for generations.
A Life Dedicated to Community and Art
A lifelong resident of San Pedro, Harrison was an integral figure in her community, dedicating her time to environmental causes and cultural initiatives. She was especially proud of her family’s legacy in tuna fishing, with her father, Carl Antonovich, and grandfather, John Antonovich, who immigrated to the United States from Korcula, Croatia, in 1907.
As a natural artist, Harrison had a remarkable eye for beauty and design, which she expressed through her oil paintings. A member of the San Pedro Art Association, she often painted coastal landscapes “en plein air” from her beachfront home. Her artistic talents extended beyond painting; she was also known as an exceptional chef and hostess, delighting guests with traditional Croatian seafood dishes, particularly her famous hobotnica (octopus salad).
Harrison’s home was a gathering place for family and friends, where laughter and stories flowed freely over dinner parties filled with love and good food. Her passion for cooking and hosting fostered a sense of community, bringing people together to celebrate life’s moments.
Family Legacy and Lasting Memories
Her profound influence on her family is evident in the lives of her four sons: Robb, Craig, Karl, and Chris Heberer. Each son carries forward the values and memories instilled by their mother. Harrison played a pivotal role in their upbringing, teaching them to swim at Cabrillo Beach and nurturing a love for the ocean that has been passed down to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Harrison’s family traditions continued with summer visits to Catalina Island, where they created cherished memories that will be treasured for generations. Her home on Bluff Place served as the backdrop for numerous family celebrations, including 4th of July fireworks, Christmas seafood feasts, and birthdays, each event steeped in love and joy.
She is survived by her sons, Robb (Debbe), Craig (Teresa), Karl (Julie), and Chris (Maria) Heberer, along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her legacy also extends to her stepsons, Chris and Brian Harrison, as well as extended family in both San Pedro and Korcula, Croatia.
A private Celebration of Life will be held for immediate family and close friends in honor of Harrison’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, her family encourages donations to the San Pedro Boys and Girls Club, an organization that played a significant role in her sons’ upbringing, as well as to the San Pedro Art Association, reflecting her dedication to community and the arts.
Arlene Antonovich Harrison’s legacy as a loving mother, community advocate, and artist will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.