About Us
The Story of Rex and American Classic Pizzeria
Rex, the President of American Classic Pizzeria Co., may shy away from the spotlight, but his journey in the pizza business is nothing short of remarkable. With over four decades of experience, Rex’s story is deeply woven into the fabric of the pizza industry and the community he serves.
Our story begins in 1978 when Rex graduated from high school in Huxley, Iowa. Soon after, he started working for Paul Revere’s Pizza, owned by Richard “Dick” Mueller. Dick became a mentor and close friend to Rex, guiding him through the early years of his career. Rex worked for Paul Revere’s Pizza until 1980, when he moved to Montana to help his grandparents.
In 1982, Rex co-founded Stageline Pizza, which grew to include 15 locations across Montana and beyond. Rex’s father and his aunts—Mimi, Dorothy, and Irene—played significant roles in the company’s growth. Over time, the family expanded their ventures: Dorothy’s locations became Rosa’s Pizza, Irene founded Nitetrain Pizza in Minot, North Dakota, and Mimi operates a Rosa’s in Fessenden, ND. Rex’s sister Angie owns Angela’s Pizza in Kalispell, while his brother manages Rosa’s in Bigfork, MT.
Rex sold his interest in Stageline Pizza in 1991 to travel and explore the country. During his time in Atlanta, Georgia, he became a devoted Braves fan and gained valuable experience working for The Mellow Mushroom and later for Dick Mueller again. When Dick’s venture, American Classic Sub and Pizzeria, closed, Rex asked for permission to use the name for his next business.
Returning to Montana in the mid-1990s, Rex managed a Stageline Pizza location before opening American Classic Pizzeria in the Billings Heights on October 1, 1998. With the unwavering support of his father, Walt, the business flourished and became a local favorite for fast, friendly service and high-quality food.
Sadly, Rex’s sister Cheri, who was a key part of American Classic Pizzeria’s early days, has since passed away. Her contributions and memory remain a cherished part of the company’s history and legacy.
Today, Rex continues to lead American Classic Pizzeria with the same passion and commitment that started it all. After more than 25 years of serving the Billings community, American Classic Pizzeria remains dedicated to delivering the best pizza experience around.
Rex thanks God for his many blessings and believes that all Americans should read the Bible and the Constitution.
