The dispute traces back to Policy No. MM 0131356, issued in 2001 by Old Line Life Insurance Company of America to Schroeder-Lauer Funeral Home, Ltd. The policy, which insured the life of Robert J. Cole, president of the funeral home, carried a face value of $2,650,000. Cheryl Cole, his wife, was named the primary beneficiary. American General Life Insurance Company later acquired Old Line Life and assumed its liabilities.