Mr. Michael J. Powanda, age 64, of Gilberton, died Thursday evening at Ridgeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Shenandoah.  Born and the former Ashland State Hospital he was the son of the late Michael & Anna (Kost) Powanda.  He was a 1969 graduate of Mahanoy Area High School and also Penn State University with degrees in Botany and Computer programming.  He had been employed with Underwriters and Administrators of Harrisburg as a department supervisor and last worked for Wal Mart Distribution Center.  He enjoyed cooking and gardening.  He was of the Catholic Faith.  He is survived by a sister Linda Economy and her husband Michael of Gilberton, his companion and caregiver Mary Ann Bibleheimer of Shenandoah Heights, nephews Michael Economy and Jason Economy and his wife Katrina, great nieces  Karliegh, Josie, Kensley and Alivia, 2 adopted children Robert  and Samantha and his great grandchildren  Anthony and Salem Gomez and Alex Drogus and his former wife Mary Ann Kovach.  Relatives and friends are invited to call Sunday from 2 to 4 PM at David D. Jarrett Funeral Home of Mahanoy City. A religious services will be at 3 PM with the Rev. Kevin P. Gallagher officiating.  Interment will be private.  Please visit www.jarrettfuneralome.com for more information.