I think retirement is a pipe dream...

As I learned recently when my father died, many 401k's do NOT have any death benefits. Meaning when you die they just keep it. Check into that if you havent already. My father had made me the beneficiary....etc. but they don't pay out on death so what was the point?
Are you sure you’re talking about a 401k??? Your father’s contributions can’t just be taken from his beneficiaries/heirs.

There’s something off here. I’m not sure what you’re referring to as “death benefits “.