Napier v. FIREMEN'S ASSN. OF CHICAGO

Eileen I. Napier (plaintiff) brought an action for declaratory judgment against Chicago Fire Fighters Union, Local No. 2, affiliated with International Association of Fire Fighters, AFL-CIO (Union) and Bankers Life and Casualty Company (Insurer.) She sought to establish her right to a death benefit in connection with the death of her late husband, George W. Napier. Both plaintiff and the Union made motions for summary judgment. The trial judge denied the Union’s motion and entered judgment in favor of plaintiff. The Union and the Insurer appeal.

The Union contends that its by-laws are…