The Nippa Legacy Timeline

Below is a look into the timeline and history of NIPPA—rooted in tradition, built through generations, and driven by a passion for authentic sauna culture. From its early beginnings shaped by Finnish heritage and hands-on craftsmanship to its evolution into a trusted name in wood-burning sauna stoves, NIPPA’s journey reflects a commitment to quality, innovation, and the enduring spirit of the Great Lakes region.

1922

Leo makes first stove with his step dad out of a steam boiler

1930

Leo Nippa Incorporates the business and starts making sauna stoves. At first Leo simply used welding rod to weld his name Leo Nippa and just below that Bruces to indicate where they were made in the town of Bruce Crossing, MI formally known as “Bruces Crossing” hence “Bruces” being used.

Shortly after Leo had cast iron doors produced that stated “Leo Nippa

Date Unknown -

Leo Nippas son Eli joins him in the business and together they make stoves. The doors get changed to say leo Nippa and Son.

Antique Leo Nippa Bruce's sauna stove from the 1930s, heavily patinated with rust, featuring a cast iron firebox door with coil spring handle and cursive stick-welded nameplate

1960

Leo Nippa Retires (Between 1930 & 1960) there were 15,000 heaters sold

1960 - 1969

Eli Nippa takes over the family business and continues the Nippa legacy

1964

Gov George Romney Visits Eli Nippa and the Nippa manufacturing facility in Bruce Crossing

Governor George Romney speaking with Eli Nippa at the Nippa sauna stove manufacturing facility in Bruce Crossing Michigan

1969

Eli sells the business to Mike Stenfors (Leos Grandson, Elis Nephew) and Gil Kotila.

1969 - 1973

Mike Stenfors & Gil Kotila (Bruce Manufacturing Inc.) Stove Doors: Nippa Sauna Heaters

1973

Mike Stenfors buys out Gil Kotila

1973 - 1978

Mike Stenfors ownership. Doors: Nippa Sauna Heaters

1979

Gil Kotila purchases the company from Mike Stenfors. For the first time Nippa is owned and operated by someone not part of the Nippa Family. Doors Change to Nippa current design.