Joan and Tom own and operate a John Deere Farm Equipment dealership in Waupun and a yard and garden store in Beaver Dam, and then have been in that business since 1976. Joan graduated in 1974 from UW-Stevens Point, and was a first grade teacher before she and Tom went into business.

Her public service began in Markesan, where she served as alderperson on the Markesan City Council for 4 years, and then served as mayor for another 6 years. Later, she sat on the Waupun Memorial Hospital Board of Directors and was Chair from 2002 to 2004. From 2003 to 2004, she also served on the management committee of Agnesian HealthCare Enterprises.