Evan F. Trestman

Beloved husband, devoted son, celebrated attorney, spirited performer, and loyal friend.

Evan F. Trestman, a nationally recognized trial attorney and cherished New Orleanian, passed away peacefully, leaving behind an enduring legacy of justice, generosity, laughter, and love. He is survived by his beloved wife, Pam Gengo Trestman; devoted mother, Roslyn Trestman; stepchildren, Ashley and Sam Miles, Linn and Joseph Atiyeh; grandchildren, Mylah Miles, Oliver Atiyeh, Holland Miles, Henrik Atiyeh, Emilia Atiyeh; nieces, Lauren Geller, Isabelle Shapiro, and Fran Lenter; nephews, Jordan Lenter and Hayden Shapiro; and his in-laws, Madelyn and Frank Gengo. He was preceded in death by his father, Israel Trestman.

Evan was a legal powerhouse, best known for his precedent-setting victory in Bernard vs. Royal Insurance Company, where he secured the largest personal injury verdict in Louisiana history. He also played a pivotal role in the historic class action litigation against big tobacco, a contribution recognized by the American Lung Association with its prestigious “Breath of Life” award.

Beyond the courtroom, Evan was an extraordinary civic leader, appointed by governors and mayors alike to improve institutions from the Audubon Commission to the New Orleans Police Department. He brought brilliance and integrity to every role, whether crafting legal strategy or a blueprint for civic reform.

But Evan’s legacy cannot be measured by verdicts or appointments alone. He was a compassionate man. He called his friends and family every day to check in, simply to show he cared. He loved deeply and fiercely—his friends, his family, his city, and his mission to make a larger impact on others. He had a wicked sense of humor, a booming voice, and a heart that rivaled the scale of his accomplishments. He lived life with extraordinary passion. Whether skiing the slopes of Aspen, performing opera or show tunes on stage, or simply enjoying delicious ribs and laughter, he lived life to the absolute fullest.

A proud alumnus of Tulane Law School, Evan credited the university with helping launch his storied career and gave back generously, creating an endowment to elevate the Moot Court program to national prominence. His gift ensures that generations of aspiring attorneys will be trained not only in the letter of the law but also in the art of persuasion—a craft he so masterfully embodied.

Evan lived his life as a true performer: bold, authentic, and unforgettable. From courtroom battles to theatrical stages, from Aspen peaks to New Orleans streets, he embraced every moment with flair. A fitness enthusiast and adventurer at heart, he found joy in movement, in art, in justice, and in people.

Those who knew Evan will remember his brilliance, his compassion, his humor, and his unwavering commitment to excellence. He inspired greatness, demanded fairness, and above all, gave his heart generously to all who crossed his path.

He leaves behind not just a body of legal work but also a legacy of leadership, love, and laughter.

Grateful for his excellent care, thanks to the amazing doctors at Duke University Lung Transplant team led by Doctor John Reynolds and the amazing doctors at East Jefferson Hospital. May his memory be a blessing—and may we each strive to live as fully and fearlessly as Evan Trestman.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made to Duke Health in support of lung disease research. Please mail checks to Duke Health Development, ATTN: Jillian Ream, Duke Alumni and Development Records, Box 90581, Durham, NC 27708 or visit https://www.gifts.duke.edu/dukehealth/?designation=3916468 to make a secure gift online.