Matter of Estate of Alarcon

HOLOHAN, Chief Justice.

We granted review in this case to determine the proper disposition of the proceeds of a certain term life insurance policy. We have jurisdiction pursuant to A.R.S. § 12-120.24 and Rule 23, Arizona Rules of Civil Appellate Procedure, 17A A.R.S.

The facts are uncontested. Manuel and Sandra Alarcon were husband and wife. In March 1979 Manuel purchased a $50,000 term life insurance policy and as owner of the policy named as primary beneficiary his wife, Sandra. Manuel named no secondary beneficiary.

In November 1982 Sandra was voluntarily admitted to Palo Verde Hospital in…