Arlene Beth Antonovich Harrison, a cherished matriarch of the San Pedro community, passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 89. Her death marks the loss of a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend who left an indelible mark on the lives of those around her.
Harrison was preceded in death by her husband, Claude K. Harrison, who passed away in 2018 after 42 years of marriage. She is also survived by her brother, Carl Antonovich, who died in 2024. Known affectionately as Nene, she was a proud representative of her Croatian fishing heritage, rooted in a family legacy that dates back to her father, Carl Antonovich, and grandfather, John Antonovich, who immigrated from Korcula to the United States in 1907.
A Lifelong Commitment to Art and Community
Nene was a passionate environmental activist and a dedicated member of the San Pedro Art Association. She possessed a natural talent for art, particularly oil painting, and often captured the stunning coastlines from her ocean view beach house. Her artistic pursuits were not only a hobby but a way to connect with fellow artists and the beautiful landscape that surrounded her.
As an excellent chef and hostess, Harrison was known for her lavish dinner parties. Family and friends would gather to enjoy her famous Croatian seafood dishes, including the much-loved hobotnica octopus salad, accompanied by good wines and shared stories filled with laughter.
A devoted mother, Nene imparted her love for the ocean to her four sons, teaching them how to swim at Cabrillo Beach. This love for the beach carried on through generations, influencing the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Summer weeks spent on Catalina Island became cherished family traditions, creating lasting memories.
Legacy and Community Contributions
Nene’s beach house on Bluff Place served as a gathering place for numerous family celebrations, including Fourth of July fireworks and Christmas Eve feasts. Her legacy extends beyond her immediate family, as she leaves behind a vibrant network of loved ones, including her sons Robb, Craig, Karl, and Chris Heberer, along with their families, and stepsons Chris Harrison and Brian Harrison.
In honor of her commitment to youth and the arts, a private Celebration of Life is being organized for her immediate family and close friends, reflecting her wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the San Pedro Boys and Girls Club, where her sons spent many afternoons engaged in sports and activities, and to the San Pedro Art Association, to support future generations of artists.
Arlene Antonovich Harrison’s life was a testament to family, community, and the love of art. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her, reminding them of the importance of connection, creativity, and compassion.
