Death is inevitable. And work, hard work is inevitable for the many, the 'ordinary people'. But not for all. Privilege and power have a role to play regarding the main question of the thread, especially its first part.
I think your question actually explains it all quite succinctly--we live and then die. The what-for and why is entirely up to you, in other words, make it up. Whatever reason you may make up for living...well, that is completely immaterial to anyone. Here's a thought experiment: the world's graves are full of indispensable people. Most every person would like to believe they are someone special, have some purpose in life and will make some grand impact upon the world. Of course, we all know it to be the exact opposite! People are remembered, at most, a week after death, maybe, on occasion, a family member may reflect upon a person's life and what that person meant to them for years; but, in either case, remembered or not, it makes absolutely no difference to the dead. Think of any famous person you like...they are still dead, no matter how sentimental and heartfelt the thoughts you may have of the dead person. Sure, the dead can have an impact upon the living, if the living should supply that power to the dead, i.e. read, contemplate the writings of a dead person, etc. As far as work goes...this world would bore one to death if it wasn't for the salvation of work! Since there is simply no reason to live and struggle, work is the only activity that provides solace, meaning and purpose to one's life.