He was part of The Hungry Five, a group of businessmen who are credited with keeping the Green Bay Packers in operation during numerous financially difficult times.

During his 17 years as president from 1930 to 1947, the Packers won five NFL Championships while enduring the Great Depression and World War II.

[6] During the late 1800s, the grocery store business was expanded into a wholesale grocer and various buildings were erected, including a large plant along the Fox River.

The corporation focused on modernizing the grocery industry, including stores, packing plants, and restaurants.

[8] Joannes, as a local civic leader and prosperous businessman, supported the early growth and development of the Green Bay Packers.

[13] Joannes was elected to the first executive committee and board of directors of the corporation, where he would serve as secretary and treasurer for seven years.

In the first years of his presidency, the Packers lost a lawsuit initiated by a fan who fell out of the stands at City Stadium.

[16] Joannes also helped lead the team during World War II, when multiple NFL players were called into service and were unable to compete.

[18] He was reelected to the executive committee in 1950 where he helped organize the third stock sale after the departure of co-founder Curly Lambeau.

[20] He served on the executive committee for nine more years, also holding the titles of chairman of the board from 1950 to 1953 and vice president from 1953 to 1959.