Arlene Beth Antonovich Harrison, a cherished member of the San Pedro community, passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 89. She is survived by her sons and their families, leaving behind a legacy rich in love, art, and community service.
Arlene was married for 42 years to Claude K. Harrison, who preceded her in death in 2018. She was also preceded by her brother Carl Antonovich, who passed away in 2024. Known affectionately as Nene, she embraced her Croatian heritage and was proud of her family’s fishing roots, which trace back to her father, Carl Antonovich, and grandfather, John Antonovich, who immigrated from Korcula, Croatia, in 1907.
A Lifelong Artist and Community Advocate
Nene was not only a devoted mother but also a passionate environmental activist. Her love for the ocean was evident in her lifestyle and artistic pursuits. As a member of the San Pedro Art Association, she showcased her talent for oil painting, often capturing the stunning coastlines from her beach house overlooking the sea. Her artistic endeavors were complemented by her renowned culinary skills; she was celebrated for hosting gatherings that featured traditional Croatian seafood dishes, including the popular hobotnica octopus salad.
Her home on Bluff Place served as a backdrop for countless family celebrations, from Fourth of July fireworks to Christmas Eve feasts. Arlene’s nurturing spirit extended beyond her family, as she treated her sons’ friends with the same warmth and care she showed her own children.
Creating Lasting Memories with Family
Arlene was dedicated to instilling a love for the ocean in her four sons, teaching them to swim at Cabrillo Beach. This passion for the beach and ocean life resonated through generations, influencing not only her sons but also their children and grandchildren. Summer weeks spent on Catalina Island were filled with cherished memories and family traditions that will carry on.
She is survived by her sons Robb Heberer (Debbe), Craig Heberer (Teresa), Karl Heberer (Julie), and Chris Heberer (Maria), along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family includes granddaughters Heidi Linscomb, Megan Wescott, Molly Dragich, Marina Miller, and Liana Heberer, as well as grandsons Zack Heberer, Cory Heberer, and others. She also leaves behind stepsons Chris Harrison and Brian Harrison (Felicity) and their children.
In accordance with her wishes, a private Celebration of Life is being arranged for immediate family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the San Pedro Boys and Girls Club, which played a significant role in her sons’ childhoods, or to the San Pedro Art Association, supporting the arts in the community she loved.
Arlene Antonovich Harrison’s impact on her family and community will be felt for generations to come, as her legacy of love, creativity, and dedication to environmental causes continues to inspire those who knew her.
