Sidney Akselrad, rabbi emeritus of Congregation Beth Am in Los Altos Hills, died Nov. 14 in his Palo Alto home. He was 85.

Akselrad is survived by his wife of 53 years, Marjorie; his children, Audrey Smith, Deena Shi, Rabbi Sanford Akselrad and Lisa Akselrad; six grandchildren; and two sisters.

Memorial contributions can be made to Congregation Beth Am, 26790 Arastradero Road, Los Altos Hills 94022. The family requests that donations be directed either to the Rabbi Sidney Akselrad Lectureship Fund or to the Emergency Relief Fund for Israel of Congregation Beth Am. Please include a note specifying the fund you wish to support.

A public memorial service will be held in the Congregation Beth Am sanctuary 11 a.m. Sunday. Carpooling is encouraged.