Community Loses Philanthropist, Attorney, and Mother Allison Dickson Baker

Allison Dickson Baker, a force of nature in Austin philanthropy, passed away Thursday morning at 65. [https://www.legacy.com/us/alison-baker-obituary?pid=203117545] 

Along with her husband, lawyer Steve Baker, she was struck by a vehicle while walking in Tarrytown. Steve survived with serious injuries. 

Allison founded Cattlemen Care, a food nonprofit, facilitating cattle donations and distribution to those in need. [https://www.newspapers.com/article/valley-morning-star/15285956/] The organization worked with ranchers, processing plants, and P-Terry's to provide meals for various groups, including the Boys & Girls Club. [https://www.facebook.com/austincommunityfoundation/videos/cattleman-care/10155418264099785/] 

"Everyone lives. But not everyone chooses to live every day," her son, Temple Baker, reflected. "She lived the way she thought matters." 

A Life of Passion and Service

Born Mary Allison Dickson on June 29, 1959, she was the daughter of Katherine and R. Temple Dickson III, a Democratic legislator. Allison, less than 5-foot-1, packed a hummingbird's energy, pursuing law at UT and later, success as an environmental lawyer.

Returning to Austin, she left law in '97 post-motherhood to dedicate herself to civic causes. Son Treeman Baker noted, "What would have been an 'afterthought' to others, Allison turned into her passion." 

Over a decade, Allison's Cattlemen Care donated 100+ tons of beef to the community. She also actively volunteered at Austin High, bringing athlete volunteers to the Boys & Girls Club and organizing events. 

Friend Catherine Miller shared, "She never quit...She was still enjoying her quality of life." 

Allison is survived by her mother, husband, four children, sisters Angie Dickson, Priscilla Primavera, Maria Parigi, and nine nieces and nephews. 

In memory: [https://www. катастрофы.com/us/obituaries/statesman/name/alison-baker-obituary?pid=203117545]