scene in malibu

WRITTEN BY ZEN GESNER

PHOTO BY EMILY SCHER

The Malibu maverick architect Harry Gesner lived an exceptional 97 years. His life story is nothing less than a remarkable adventure. We take comfort in the knowledge that his adventure will live on in the many beautiful homes that he designed, in his inventions and in his 1957 Mercedes 190SL that he converted to be 100% electric. He will live on in those inspired by his work and in the ocean and environment that will forever be linked with his spirit, and in our family who will carry on his legacy. The ocean was where my father asked to be laid to rest - so on November 19, over 40 of his closet friends and family paddled out in front of his beloved Sandcastle, formed a circle joining hands in the traditional Hawaiian tribute meant to memorialize life and legacy.

We passed his urn around the circle so everyone could say their farewells. As one, we threw rose petals up in the air and cheered his name loudly “Harry!!! Harry!!! Harry!!!” spreading his ashes in the crystal water, splashing, celebrating his life in the most meaningful of ways…setting his spirit free into the deep blue universe as the sun set on the horizon.

Dad watched the sunset every day from his throne on the deck, and would tell us to “Watch for the Blue Flash”, and I will never look at a sunset without hearing his words.

In 2010, his beloved wife (my mother) was celebrated in the same way, in the same place, but with my father leading the ceremony. He is now with her again, and with many other beloved family and friends of the ocean who have been honored in this fashion. I’m sure that he was happy with the amazing day, and I’ll always feel him with me, especially when I am near the ocean. “Love, that’s what it’s all about” he used to say.

Love you, Dad. Forever.

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ALBERTINA FINE JEWLERY

14 karat Love and Bu pendants by Alexa Sidaris

Call for pricing (310) 457-8632

Emerald Ring

ALBERTINA FINE JEWLERY

Custom diamond accented emerald ring, call to create your own

Diamond Cuff Bracelet

ALBERTINA FINE JEWLERY

18k gold and diamond cuff bracelet by Sara Weinstock ($2650)

Albertina Fine Jeweler of Malibu (310) 457-8632 • IG @albertina.malibu

Barefoot Dreams Wear

BAREFOOT DREAMS

The Barefoot Dreams collection of ultrasoft blankets and throws, pillow, robes, loungewear, apparel, candles, and accessories, as well as licensed Disney products and collaboration with Alphapals, for everyone from adults to babies and pets, can be found at 5-star resorts and spas, major department stores, and upscale boutiques around the world.

Barefoot Dreams

5302 Derry Ave. Suite D, Agoura Hills (818) 707-8848 • barefootdreams.com

RISK

TRACY PARK GALLERY

Art is 72” made out of License plates, Acrylic, aerosol, candy car paint, crushed abalone, surfboard resin and neon.

Tracy Park Gallery

3835 Cross Creek Rd, Malibu Malibu Colony Plaza (310) 456-7505 • tracyparkgallery.com

Floral Arrangements

SEA LILY MALIBU

Move aside red roses, Valentine’s Day isn’t always all about you. Sea Lily offers floral arrangements and bouquets from European and natural garden styles for stunning contemporary designs. The majority of flowers are grown in a sustainable manner and are from local farmers.

Sea Lily Malibu

6444 Trancas Canyon Rd, Malibu (310) 457-8100 • sealilymalibu.com

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Green Fluorite Sphere ($125)

Sorenity Rocks

SORENITY ROCKS MALIBU

Crystal Pendulum, Gemstone Pendulum, Lapis Pendulum, Rose Quartz Pendulum, Amethyst Pendulum ($20)

Smokey Quartz Lamp ($4,550)

Sorenity Rocks Malibu