Hey! First of all, thanks so much for playing, and especially for taking the time to write such a detailed feedback. I totally agree with your points, and I'm already working on a few things along with physics fixes - especially hard-coding the crush death since this is probably the most frustrating part of the game yet. I also plan to turn the respawn point into a mechanic as you suggested!
Also, do you mind explaining more specifically how you beat the last level with 2 deaths? I can't seem to replicate it :(