Biography
In March 2021, 77-year-old Vladimir Filippov was given a 6-year suspended sentence because of his faith in Jehovah God. This was preceded by searches and lengthy criminal prosecution of a peaceful pensioner.
Vladimir was born in 1943 in the village of Oktyabrsky (Novosibirsk region). His father died at the front in the same year, even before the birth of his son. Mom worked as a laborer on a state farm. Vladimir's elder brother, Venediy (born in 1941), lives in Ukraine.
Vladimir's school years were spent in the Far East. He was actively engaged in skiing, was fond of bandy and was a member of the national team of the Krasnozersky district. Fishing was an occupation for the soul, which Vladimir loves to this day.
In 1961, Vladimir entered the Tomsk Artillery School. He graduated in 1964, and with the rank of lieutenant was sent to serve in the village of Razdolnoye. Here he met his future wife Lyubov. They married in 1967. Lyubov is a seamstress by profession. Due to her husband's frequent moves, she had to work in various specialties. She always supported her husband, participated with him in all social events. In her free time she was engaged in dancing.
Subsequently, Vladimir's service took place in the village of Shkotovo (Primorsky Krai), in the city of Leipzig (Germany), in the village of Priamursky (Jewish Autonomous Region). After 27 years of military service, Vladimir retired. After that, he worked in the Frunzensky District Executive Committee of Vladivostok.
In 1994, Vladimir's wife began to study the Bible. When her husband joined her in this, they were both convinced that this book was the Word of God. What they learned together from the Bible strengthened their faith in God and Jesus Christ. In 1995, both became Jehovah's Witnesses.
Now the couple live in the village of Razdolnoye. They moved here to help their fellow believers, as well as to take care of Lyubov's sister, who is 11 years older than her. The couple's daughter, Elena, lives on the other side of the country. Vladimir and Lyubov cope with all household chores, including the garden, on their own. Lyubov also loves to grow flowers at home. Vladimir is already retired. He loves to spend time with friends, often fishing with his wife.
In January 2020, Vladimir Filippov's house was searched for the third time. During the first search, Lyubov was subjected to rough treatment by FSB officers, and Vladimir was slapped in the face by the security forces. The criminal prosecution undermined the health of the elderly couple. Lyubov's numerous chronic diseases worsened.